Social activists protest in Bengaluru expressing their frustration with the opposition’s inaction
Team Clarion
BANGALORE – Rising violence against Muslims across the country has prompted a wave of protests, with Congress workers in Bengaluru taking to the streets to voice their outrage. The demonstrators condemned the ongoing attacks on the Muslim community, accusing the opposition, particularly the Congress party, of failing to stand up against the escalating atrocities.
Over the past few months, several states have witnessed a disturbing increase in violence targeting Muslims. Mosques have been vandalised, and mob lynchings have become alarmingly frequent. These incidents have sparked fear and anger within the Muslim community, which feels increasingly vulnerable in the current socio-political climate.
Social activists N. Sri Ram, Tanveer Ahmed, and A.J. Khan, who were at the forefront of the Bangalore protest, expressed their frustration with the opposition’s inaction. “The people entrusted the opposition with their votes, expecting them to be a voice for the oppressed,” said N. Sri Ram. “But instead of standing up for justice, the opposition has remained conspicuously silent, seemingly more concerned with its political interests.”
The activists specifically called out the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, questioning his silence on the issue. “It is disheartening to see that someone in Rahul Gandhi’s position has not spoken out against the violence Muslims are facing,” said Tanveer Ahmed. “We had higher expectations from a leader who claims to stand for justice and equality.”
A.J. Khan added: “This silence is not just disappointing; it’s dangerous. It sends a message that the lives of Muslims are not worth defending, and that is something we cannot accept.”
The protestors’ concerns are not unfounded. Reports of mob violence targeting Muslims have been steadily increasing, with several incidents resulting in fatalities. In many cases, the victims were targeted based on unfounded accusations, such as allegations of cow slaughter or interfaith relationships. The lack of swift and decisive action from both the government and the opposition has only exacerbated the situation.
The silence of the opposition, particularly the Congress party, has become a focal point of criticism. Activists argue that the party’s lack of response undermines the role of the opposition in a democracy, which is to hold the government accountable and protect the rights of all citizens. “The opposition is supposed to be the watchdog of democracy,” said Tanveer Ahmed. “But when it remains silent in the face of such blatant injustice, it fails in its duty.”
In response to the mounting criticism, senior Congress leader Dr K. Rehman Khan attempted to reassure the public. He acknowledged the concerns raised by the activists and promised that the Congress party would address these issues in the upcoming parliamentary sessions. “Congress has always stood for the rights of minorities and the downtrodden,” he said. “We will not stay silent. We will bring these issues to the forefront in parliament and demand accountability.”
However, activists and many within the Muslim community remain sceptical. While Congress has made promises of action, the lack of concrete measures so far has led to growing distrust. “We’ve heard promises before, but what we need now is action,” said N. Sri Ram. “The violence against Muslims is not just an issue for the Muslim community; it’s an issue for all Indians who believe in justice and equality.”
The protest in Bangalore is just one of many taking place across the country. Activists and community leaders are mobilising to demand more than just words from the opposition. They want to see a comprehensive strategy to address the violence and protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religion.
The ongoing violence has also raised concerns about the broader implications for the country’s secular fabric. “India’s strength lies in its diversity,” said A.J. Khan. “But when one community is targeted and the rest of the country remains silent, it threatens the very foundation of our nation.”
As the situation continues to unfold, all eyes will be on the opposition to see whether it will rise to the occasion and take a stand against the growing violence. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Congress can regain the trust of the people and fulfill its role as a defender of justice and equality.
In the meantime, the Muslim community, along with its allies, is preparing for what many believe will be a long and challenging struggle for their rights and safety. The protests in Bangalore are a clear indication that Muslims are no longer willing to accept silence as an answer and will continue to demand action until their voices are heard.
