Ink attack on Neha Bora condemned, justice sought for Ketan Lal on anniversary of the Quit India Movement
Ink attack on Neha Bora condemned, justice sought for Ketan Lal on anniversary of the Quit India Movement
Dehradun, Aug 9
A meeting organized by social organizations and political parties to mark the anniversary of the Quit India Movement strongly condemned the incident where black ink was thrown on Neha Bora, an activist in Ranchi and demanded justice for Katan Lal of Tehri who was murdered in June, at Deen Dyal park, here today. Participants recalled the history of the freedom struggle.
Activist and senior journalist Rajiv Nayan Bahuguna stated that this is a critical transitional period where the ruling power seeks to dominate from all sides. In such times, forces of agitation need to remain vigilant and united. He emphasized the need to keep the flame of the movement—ignited by the youth in Delhi—burning for the next few years. Sarvodaya activist Bhuvan Pathak recalled the freedom movement and remarked that the current regime is fabricating false narratives regarding “Land Jihad,” “Love Jihad,” and demographic changes. While the state government pats itself on the back for enacting a strong land law, 14 ‘nalis’ of land in Pauri have been sold despite this so-called legislation. He noted that members of the ruling party are alleged to be involved in this transaction.
Indresh Maikhuri of CPI(ML) stated that individuals linked to the BJP and RSS are behind the paper leak incidents across the country. He explained that the ink was thrown at Neha in Ranchi precisely for this reason; she had gone there to protest against a government that actually enjoys the support of her own party, the CPI(ML). The JMM—which holds power there—did not oppose her, nor did the Congress or the RJD; the opposition came from an individual associated with the RSS. This clearly reveals who is behind the paper leaks.
Ankit Ucholi of AISA raised concerns regarding the chaos spreading across Uttarakhand in the name of the Kanwar Yatra. He alleged that the government is emboldening hooligans under the guise of the pilgrimage. Prof. N. Raghavendra of the Uttarakhand Insaniyat Manch stated that it is essential to raise one’s voice against those in power. Even if the numbers are small, these voices must continue to be raised. He remarked that the current regime engages solely in the politics of hatred and is, at the same time, cowardly.
Ishwar Pal Sharma observed that the ruling power has crossed all limits of repression. Today, there is a need for many more young people like Neha. Kamlesh Khantwal of the Bharat Gyan Vigyan Samiti asserted that no matter how much the current regime resorts to repression, the people will eventually teach it a lesson; our Constitution will aid in ousting them. Conducting the proceedings, Trilochan Bhatt of the Uttarakhand Insaniyat Manch took a dig at the ‘Tiranga Yatra’ (Tricolour march) being held in the city. He noted that the march is being organized by those who have historically opposed the Tricolour—and whose leader, when questioned about opposing the flag, spins a fabricated tale.
Others present at the gathering included Dr. Ravi Chopra, Dharmanand Lakhera, activist Raju Singh, Swati Negi, Nitin Kala, Pradeep Sati, and Dharmendra Joshi. The meeting began with a people’s song and concluded with the national anthem.
