Raising concerns over increasing instances of mob lynching in the country and demanding immediate implementation of the July 17 Supreme Court directives to prevent vigilantism, a large number of people on Thursday gathered at Parliament Street.
The “citizens’ protest” under the “Not in My Name” banner had students, teachers and activists in attendance.
35 deaths in 4 years
Documentary film-maker Saba Dewan said: “We have seen 35 deaths in the last four years. The least we expect is some sensitivity from the Prime Minister and not just mere statements. He should be assuring the country that no such incident will ever happen again but that assurance has not come yet. However, people from all across the country are standing against this force of hatred and we will resist.”
Also speaking at the event, lawyer and activist Vrinda Grover said, “Targeting Muslims these days is happening in an organised and institutional manner. It is impossible to depend on the current system for justice and the apex court is our only hope.”
“At this juncture, India has to choose between Samayuddin [the UP lynching survivor] and Rakesh Sisodia [the accused in the Hapur lynching]. It is for India to decide whether they will get together to ensure that Samayuddin reaches the court safely to give his testimony,” added Ms. Grover.
Indicating collusion between the executive and the police in incidents of mob lynching, where action has not been taken against the accused, activist Kavita Srivastava highlighted the importance of “commanding responsibility at this point”.
“We need to address human rights, challenge the bovine act and new laws need to be implemented. In the present scenario, self-respect is being killed in the name of the cow. The state is refusing to take responsibility, and it has become a law and order problem. There should not be a single death anymore” said Ms. Srivastava.
Appealing for greater participation from the public, documentary film-maker Rahul Roy said, “The nation is burning at the moment…if we have to fight this current situation, all us need to be out on the streets.”
“The hatred among people has become deeply entrenched at the moment. However, we are hopeful that love and peace will emerge as winners,” said those present at the protest meet.
