HYDERABAD: ‘Remembering Balagopal,’ a programme held to commemorate the eminent human rights activist, became a stage for interesting and exhilarating exchange of ideas on various topics of interest to human rights enthusiasts and activists.
From discrimination in universities in the name of caste to atrocities committed on Dalits and unrest in Bastar and Kashmir, burning issues of the nation were highlighted in the programme.
“Bastar has become another Kashmir. People of Bastar are struck between police and Maoists. What all tribal people want is a peaceful life but even that basic right is denied now,” lamented Manish Kunjam president of Adivasi Mahasabha, speaking about the turbulent and tension filled life in Bastar in Chattisgarh state.
While Kunjam likened the turbulent times in Bastar to Kashmir, Jamir Ahmed of JK Coalition of Civil Society spoke about the grave situation in Kashmir in the afternoon session.
“Since Burhan Wani’s encounter in July, Kashmir has been boiling and curfew has been clamped. About 90 people have died in and more than 5,000 have been arrested. But no one is saying anything about Kashmir. Kashmiris have been subjected to atrocities, fear, insecurity for many decades, but no one cares for human rights,” said Jamir.
At the programme, which was attended by intellectuals and activists from various parts of India, speakers were able to convey the pain being faced by many sections of people due to various forms of state oppression.
“Balagopal is not just respected but also loved by rights activists. This event —Remembering Balagopal has seen even larger participation than we expected. What is heartening is that, all the speeches were eagerly followed, by audience, thus highlighting the receptiveness for diversity,” said VS Krishna secretary of Human Rights Forum, which organised the event.