India: Attack on St. Joseph School, Gank Basoda - Statement issued by Binoy Viswam | Dec 7, 2021

Binoy Viswam
Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha)
116, North Avenue New Delhi - 110 001
Mob: 96057667022 E-mail: binoyviswam55[at]gmail.com

Statement issued by Binoy Viswam, Leader of CPI Parliamentary Group & Secretary, National Council on Attack on St. Joseph School, Gank Basoda

The recent attack on St. Joseph School, Gank Basoda in Madhya Pradesh by a mob led by extremist right-wing groups is an anathema to our society and must be condemned by all quarters. Irrespective of the allegations against the school, no entity is allowed to take the law into their own hands. The State and Central Government must take prompt cognisance of and action against these extremist offenders and ensure the protection of minorities across the State and Country.

This is not an isolated incident as nearly everyday reports from across the country indicate the growth of radical and extreme right wing groups that target religious minorities in order to further their ulterior agendas. As the leadership of the BJP and its ideological allies continue to spread hate and bigotry with impunity, the frequency of these attacks continues to increase. The Prime Minister’s continued silence on these hate crimes, further, perpetuates the impunity with which they occur. It is high time the Prime Minister condemns these attacks and calls for strict action against all such perpetrators.

India’s rich and diverse heritage has been a source of great pride since our Independence. “Unity in Diversity” are not empty words, rather they reflect the promise of an egalitarian, just and secular country where all individuals, irrespective of their caste, creed, gender, sexual orientation or religion are treated equally. These hate crimes must be addressed immediately before the soul of India is lost to hatred.

07th December 2021

Binoy Viswam

Member, Standing Committee on Railways