Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to State governments to clamp down on cow vigilantes is a case of too little, too late (July 17). Considerable damage has already been done in the name of cow vigilantism and fringe groups have fostered a feeling of insecurity among the minorities. Instead, it would have served the cause better had he advised his ministerial colleagues and right-wing forces to observe restraint and refrain from whipping up religious passions on this touchy issue. This malaise is more predominant in BJP-ruled northern States where such forces are encouraged to let loose a reign of terror. Interfering in peoples’ eating habits is a dangerous trend and is bound to jeopardise unity.
P.K. Varadarajan,
Chennai
The appeal is lukewarm and untimely and appears to be only a tactical one to blunt any attack by the Opposition ahead of the monsoon session of Parliament. The Prime Minister appears keen on shifting the responsibility to States to take action rather than taking a strong decision at the Central level. Cow vigilantism was not heard of for a long time until the present government came to power.
Even if there have been protests such as #NotInMyName, the problem is a lack of solid legislation especially in the category of hate crimes. Proper compensation should be given to the families of victims. The government must also show spine in coming forward and lending support to the victims’ kin. It would definitely send out a strong message.
Joseph Paul,
New Delhi
The lynching of Dalits and Muslims in the name of cow protection is a national shame. Cow vigilantism is an activity of only a few, who are the self-appointed ambassadors of Hindu rights. Mere words even from the Prime Minister will not solve the problem unless there is strong action.
Ayush Ghiya,
Mumbai
The Prime Minister cannot afford to abdicate his responsibility simply by exhorting States to act especially when the vigilantes are most active in the States ruled by his party. The stoking of passions by his party men has greatly contributed to the spread of violence. It is the perception that they have the support of the state and its agencies that has emboldened cow vigilantes to go to extremes. The fact that Mr. Modi is more worried about the “image” than innocent lives that are being lost is probably a reflection of the direction of his government.
The root of the problem is in the overwhelming influence Hindutva organisations —and which thrive on hate against minorities —wield on the government. Unless the Prime Minister can show them their place by upholding constitutional values and governance, the spate of violence is unlikely to recede and his warning will go the same way as the previous ones have.
Manohar Alembath,
Kannur, Kerala
The recent spate of fatal assaults by cow vigilantes on beef traders and beef consumers across the country has been met with some outcry. Unfortunately, many in social and political circles are impulsively giving mob lynchings a communal colour, and thereby stoking communal tensions. These people should understand that those who are engaged in the beef trade are predominantly from socially and economically disadvantaged communities, and many are non-Hindus — which explains why most of those who have fallen victim to attacks by self-proclaimed ‘gau rakshaks’ are either Muslims or Dalits. While I am glad that Indians are expressing their solidarity against fringe elements and religious zealots, I would like to see a more effective response going forward.
Hiteshvar Chandramouli,
Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu
