Speak out against mob killing!
This is in response to the editorial titled "Spike in mob killing"(July 27). The brutal murder of people accused of petty crimes has once again proved how law and order has almost ceased to exist in our society. Molestation, rapes, acid attacks and violent behaviour in public places are increasing by leaps and bounds! However, the audacity of the brutes is bound to increase because of the extremely low conviction rate due to lack of witnesses, political interference, tedious legal processes, and innumerable other reasons.
The situation has come to such a pathetic pass that it has almost become a "sin" to be weak and vulnerable! And by drawing inspiration from the adage "Might is Right", the coward public shamelessly take the side of those who wield muscle power. Whenever any verbal duel turns physical, the public invariably support the stronger person. Instead of protesting against the rapist, people question the "character" of the vulnerable victim!
Many precious lives will continue to meet tragic and brutal death unless and until the rule of law is practically restored in society and the common people come out in support of those who have been victimised.
In this context, Martin Niemoller's comment may be recalled: "First they came for the Communists and I didn't speak out because I wasn't a communist; then they came for the Socialists/Trade Unionists/Catholics and I didn't speak out because I wasn't a Socialist/Trade Unionist/Catholic; then they came for me and there was no one left to speak for me."
Kajal Chatterjee
Kolkata, India
Comments