Non-violence has been a part of the course curriculum for many students in schools, colleges, and universities. But, I believe Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings of truth, non-violence, and peace are shedding from the mindsets of youngsters in India. They are only remembered every year on his birth anniversary, in various states of India, and other parts of the world.
Apart from these widely celebrated occasions, it’s only a few times that intellectuals are seen on roads or in seminars to share their beliefs about Gandhi. Now, when I see a huge number of Indians echoing their voices against the plans of the Central Government, to implement controversial acts and measures, such as CAA(Citizenship Amendment Bill) and NRC (The National Register of Citizens), I have a question.
Why have I gathered here with my friends and family holding placards to support the crowds? Instead of making an effort to grab the attention of authorities, wouldn’t it have been better to cease our ‘aggressive’ actions and peacefully return to our homes? After all, fearless war and disrupting social order, never made anyone a better individual, right? But, no. That’s not the truth. Voicing our opinions, especially in such authoritarian times, is necessary to protect our rights, and privileges, as a democracy.
A couple of days ago, in a piece of shocking news, it was reported that, outside Jamia Millia Islamia, at the protest site, there was an unidentified man holding a pistol in his hand. He was shouting slogans like, “Who wants freedom? I will give freedom”. He first began walking around the circle of police officials, press and students. It was then that he fired a few rounds of bullets in the air and injured a Jamia Milla student. This incident was recorded in broad daylight when the demonstrators were protesting against the CAA-NRC policies.
Our country is already facing an economic crisis in several sectors. Amidst these protests across the cities, poor and lower-middle-class families dwelling in the streets are suffering. The responsibility of Narendra Modi and his government has become more evident and urgent now to address the concerns of the public in such a crucial time.
What we, as normal people can do, is protect our civil rights from being destroyed and exploited by politicians and political influencers, who are purposely infusing the ideas of hatred in the minds of innocent people. We need to do protect our rights from these political leaders who just want to be in the light of power.