Patna: Bihar Sharif and Sasaram witnessed the worst violence during the Ram Navami processions this year. Mobs attacked the properties of Muslims and set their homes on fire, which led to severe damage to their homes, livelihood, and shelter. The violence intensified when the crowd set fire to the 100-year-old Azizia Madarsa, destroying 4500 books. Local shops and vendors also suffered significant property losses. The violence occurred despite a peace meeting held a few days before Ram Navami.

To investigate the matter, the Association for Protection of Civil Rights Fact-Finding Team visited the affected area and recorded the testimonies of families who sustained injuries and suffered financial loss. The fact-finding revealed a complete failure of the state and how Bajrang Dal members hoisted their flags in the presence of the police, who did nothing to stop them. The police arrived five to six hours after the violence started, and the administration failed to comply with the agreed-upon directives.

The report puts forth several recommendations, urging the state government to compensate the victims of violence who have lost their livelihood and shelter and were severely attacked by Bajrang Dal goons.

Several speakers spoke at a press conference highlighting the planned nature of the violence, expressing concern over the lack of accountability of those responsible, including politicians. They emphasized the importance of fact-finding and detoxifying the community from hatred. They also stressed the importance of secularism and political action to counter the violence.

Prashant Tandon, a veteran Journalist observed that the recent violence during Ram Navami in Bihar, specifically in Bihar Sharif and Sasaram, was preplanned and concurrent. They mentioned that in 2018, similar violence occurred, but it was controlled by following directives from the peace committee, such as avoiding provocative songs and weapons, which were approved by the administration.

Mobashshir Aneeq, Advocate referred to a 2018 report with recommendations, but noted that in 2023, there was a lack of on-ground implementation of the peace committee's directives. He highlighted that the violence caused significant damage, and questioned the silence of local politicians and the biased actions of the police.

Bhasha Singh, Journalist emphasized the importance of fact-finding to counter fake news and highlighted the planned nature of the violence, expressing concern over the lack of accountability of those responsible, including politicians. She also mentioned the use of festivals for political gain and the potential radicalization of unemployed youth.

John Dayal, Social Activist highlighted the issue of Islamophobia, stating that it is a ticking time bomb that is destroying the country. He mentioned instances of schools and communities promoting Islamophobia, and the need for secularism and political action to counter the violence. He also stressed the importance of fact-finding and detoxifying the community from hatred.

Professor Apoorvanand stated that Ram Navami processions in Bihar have been used as a weapon to incite violence against Muslims, with reports showing a pattern of destruction of Muslim homes and businesses. Police must be held accountable and the Hindu community should take initiative to prevent their children from participating in such violence.

Urmilesh, Senior Journalist stated that Bihar is not an exception when it comes to violence during festivals, particularly Ram Navami processions. Lack of efforts by the administration and political polarization contribute to the problem. Weapons are used and bought, and better political party efforts are needed to control such violence.

Sanjay Hedge, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court emphasized that private reports may not have an immediate impact, but they contribute to long-term change. The struggle against memory and the powerful who do not want us to remember is ongoing. Change is needed not only in Bihar but across the country to achieve hope and liberty.

In a unanimous voice, all the speakers expressed concern over the preplanned violence during Ram Navami in Bihar, the lack of implementation of directives, the issue of Islamophobia, and the need for fact-finding and political action to address the violence and promote secularism.

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Hassan (Karnataka), Jul 26 (PTI): Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Saturday refuted allegations that Congress general secretary and Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala had met with state government officials, terming it "completely false".Speaking to reporters at Arsikere, Shivakumar clarified that Randeep Surjewala has neither met nor spoken to any officials.

“This is our government. If there is anything to be conveyed, he (Surjewala) will tell us directly. If there are any mistakes, he will inform us, and we will correct them. Apart from that, saying he met officials is false,” Shivakumar, who is also the Congress state president said.

Asked about Karnataka Minister K N Rajanna’s statement that such meetings with officials are "illegal", Shivakumar declined to comment.

“I don’t want to speak about senior leaders. The Chief Minister has already responded to this. After his clarification, I have nothing further to say. The Chief Minister has more information than I do,” he said.

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