Heart-Wrenching Scenes: Amaravati Farmers in Protest Custody and Their Plight
The recent protests by farmers in Amaravati, the capital city of Andhra Pradesh, have not only brought attention to issues of land acquisition and income displacement, but also to a series of disturbing incidents involving police brutality and human rights violations.
Background
The farmers of Amaravati have largely remained peaceful throughout their protests, maintaining their identity as hardworking farmers rather than anti-social elements. Their actions have been driven by a desire to protect their livelihoods and properties.
United Nations Committee Concern
The United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) has raised concerns over the treatment of farmers in Amaravati. These concerns include instances such as the unfounded violence against a female activist, where a policeman kneed her abdomen, resulting in significant injury. Additionally, an elderly farmer was subjected to inhumane treatment by a police officer, who appeared to be intentionally endangering his safety.
Unprovoked Attacks
The police have also been accused of brutalizing innocent civilians, such as a child in Vijayawada who was arrested and cried out of fear, and a village who were stopped from visiting the revered Kanaka Durga temple. A particularly severe incident involved police attacking a woman in an attempt to prevent her from defending her people, leading to their legs being broken.
Public Reaction and Media Coverage
These incidents have garnered significant attention not only within India but also internationally. Reports have been published in publications such as The Mumbai Mirror, highlighting the violence and human rights violations. The issue has also sparked a public outcry, with many expressing disbelief and disappointment over the lack of accountability towards the perpetrators.
Analogous Historical Context
The situation in Amaravati has been likened to the infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre, where British rulers perpetrated acts of terror. Similarly, the actions of the Jagan Reddy government and its supporters have been viewed as oppressive and inhumane. The phrase 'Dritarashtra Andha Kanoon' (Blind Justice) and 'BJP enjoying killings' further emphasize the dire need for reform and justice.
Consequences and Public Sentiment
The public sentiment expressed on these incidents is overwhelmingly negative, with many questioning the moral and ethical conduct of the authorities. The government's actions, particularly involving acts of violence against women and the vulnerable, have been met with widespread condemnation and calls for stringent action.
The continued presence of such instances of brutality and human rights violations casts a shadow over the future of Amaravati's peaceful protests and highlights the urgent need for justice and accountability.
Conclusion
The protests in Amaravati have brought to light a harsh reality where the farmers, who have given up their lands and livelihoods, are now facing a slow and unjustifiable encroachment upon their basic rights. As the situation continues to unfold, it is imperative that the authorities take effective and swift measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the protesters and to hold those responsible accountable.