On August 25, 2008, Kandhamal in Orissa witnessed the biggest communal violence in India after the Gujarat pogrom. Over 350 churches and worship places which belonged to Adivasi Christians and Dalit Christians were destroyed, around 6,500 houses wrecked, over 90 people killed, more than 40 women subjected to rape, molestation and humiliation and several educational, social service and health institutions destroyed and looted. More than 56,000 people have been displaced. Hidutva forces forcefully converted Christians into Hinduism. This was the biggest communal violence on Christian community in the last three centuries.
Under Modi’s rule, the “Ghar Wapsi” movement spread across India. India witnessed many large-scale hate campaigns and violence on minorities in the name of Ghar Wapsi. In Kandhamal, forced conversions took place. Those who refused to convert were killed by Hidutva activists. These hate campaigns and violence deeply affect the secular fabric that connects all diverse cultures, religions and faiths. Such politics of hatred is also in direct conflict with the Indian Constitution, which is being meticulously defeated.
During the hamal communal violence, 3,300 complaints were filed but just 82-odd FIRs were registered. In short, all the murderers, rapists, looters and destroyers are today running scot-free. At the same time, many innocents are charged and detained under UAPA and other draconian laws.
It is indeed a truth that the State had failed to provide necessary protection to the Adivasi Christians and Dalit Christians. Justice was denied to the victims and survivors of the violence.
Communal violence is not just an attack on any particular community, but rather an attack on humanity. These incidents of violence are an everlasting blot on Indian Democracy as well as the stature of India as a secular state and its commitment to deliver the basic protection of human rights to its citizens, particularly minorities.
The unholy nexus between the power centers, media and the legal system is the primary cause behind these riots and violations of human rights. Each and every silent spectator is responsible for these violations.
The Kandhamal riots, the Gujarat Pogrom and more that could come should be stopped at any cost. All peace-loving people of this country should take an oath not to give chance for a new “Kandhamal Riot” any more.
