After the declaration of the results of the assembly elections in West Bengal, riots and widespread violence at many places in the state created a gruesome atmosphere. If violence, fear, malice, violation of law become rampant in the society, not only will there be unrest, instability, but democracy, mutual trust etc. will also be destroyed. The events that took place in Bengal last May 2021, were a result of political animosity and religious fanaticism.
Election is a competition, the result of which is natural for someone to win and the other to lose. Treating it as the just verdict given by the people, continuing social life with mutual cooperation and trust, is the hallmark of mature democracy. But, abusing the administrative machinery, an attempt to destroy political opponents by giving free rein to hatred and violence, will proved to be costly for the future. That the citizens of one state had to go for a safe haven in the neighbouring state for their safety, is not only a failure of administration but also points to a situation of gross violation of democracy and constitution. Scheduled Castes Commission, Human Rights Commission, Women’s Commission and many such institutions have made their enquiries of the incidents in the state of Bengal and prepared reports. We hope that the aggrieved people will get complete justice soon.
Competition is essential in the political field, but it should be in a healthy spirit, and should be within the purview of democracy; the race should facilitate ideological brainstorming, and strengthen the development of society. But the events of the past days, the allegations and counter-allegations in the elections and its language have become a cause of concern. The most condemnable incident of stopping the convoy of the Honourable Prime Minister of the country in the name of farmers’ agitation on the main road while he was going for a scheduled program, was certainly a challenge for the security; but at the same time, this heinous act has also raised questions about political decorum, the central-state relation, the sentiment towards constitutional posts, etc.
Source: Annual Report by Sarkaryavah Shri Dattatreya Hosabale presented at the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha 2022
