On Thursday, diverse groups representing minority communities, Dalit organisations, farmers, and labourers gathered at Bengaluru's Freedom Park, pressing the state government to deliver on key promises made during the 2023 Assembly elections. Under the banner of 'Voice of Minorities and Oppressed Sections of Karnataka', protesters accused the ruling Congress of failing to uphold commitments to marginalised sections of society.
The demonstration brought together prominent Muslim and Christian leaders, alongside representatives from various social and civil rights organisations. Central to their demands were the repeal of the anti-conversion law and the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Act, both legislation enacted by the previous BJP administration. They also called for the reinstatement of the 2B reservation category for Muslims and stronger legal frameworks to combat hate speech and crimes targeting minority groups.
Archbishop of Bengaluru Dr Peter Machado addressed the assembly, stating that the anti-conversion law infringes upon the religious freedom guaranteed by Article 25 of the Constitution. He reminded the Congress that it had pledged to revoke this legislation but had yet to act. "We are not demanding anything beyond the rights guaranteed by the Constitution," Dr Machado affirmed, clarifying that the gathering served as a collective platform for socially disadvantaged sections, rather than a political or religious meeting. He highlighted the significant contributions of minority institutions to education and healthcare across all communities, asserting that minorities should not face treatment as second-class citizens. Dr Machado cautioned the Congress leadership that public trust hinges on its willingness to honour pre-election pledges.
Karnataka Muslim Okkoota convenor Yaseen Malpe echoed these sentiments in his inaugural address. He criticised the government's perceived dedication to its five guarantee schemes while neglecting promises made to minorities, Dalits, and farmers. Malpe urged Congress leaders to move beyond rhetoric and utilise their constitutional powers to safeguard the rights of vulnerable communities. He warned that if their demands were ignored, the affected groups would collectively determine their next steps.
Protesters further voiced concerns regarding the economic impact of cattle-related restrictions on farmers, livestock traders, and transport workers, advocating for the protection of livelihoods and citizens' right to food choices. They stressed the urgency of effective government action against hate speech and violence targeting minorities. Organisers reiterated that repealing the anti-conversion and cattle-slaughter laws, restoring the 2B reservation, and safeguarding minority rights were explicit commitments made by the Congress during its election campaign. They expressed disappointment over the lack of concrete action despite the party's ascent to power.
The groups urged the government to make definitive decisions on these issues during the Karnataka Legislature's winter session, scheduled for December in Belagavi. Failure to address their demands during this session, they warned, would trigger a statewide protest campaign against the Congress administration.
Image: sahilonline.org
📰 Source: Sahil Online