Is PM Modi Silent While Fake Encounters Thrive Under BJP's Yogi Adityanath?

The recent events in Uttar Pradesh (UP) under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have raised controversial questions about the administration's handling of extrajudicial killings, known as fake encounters. Critics argue that the silence from Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlights a disturbing lack of accountability within the BJP-led government.

The Background of Fake Encounters in UP

Fake encounters, a practice where security forces carry out extrajudicial killings to frame the dead as attackers, have been a recurring issue in UP. Critics argue that these incidents dilute the authority of the legal system and undermine democratic principles. Yogi Adityanath, the current Chief Minister, has faced increasing scrutiny for his administration's perceived tolerance, if not direct promotion, of these practices.

A Call for Legal Action and Transparency

Demands for a transparency and legal accountability have grown, with some voices suggesting that the matter should be referred to the Hague International Court of Justice or other independent bodies. Advocates argue that without proper judicial oversight, the cycle of violence and impunity will continue. Key cases such as the Rafale deal and the Babri Masjid demolition remain mired in controversy, further fueling public discontent.

PM Modi's Silence and Its Implications

The silence from PM Modi on these issues has brought renewed criticism. Critics argue that if the government does not take action, the administration risks a serious decline in its public standing. In the 2019 general elections, the BJP enjoyed a sweeping victory, but the current climate is far from positive. Legislative inaction, lack of transparency, and widespread human rights violations have created a volatile situation.

Impact on Public Perception and Electoral Prospects

The BJP's allies, particularly the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh), have long championed strict law and order measures. However, this approach is now seen as detrimental to the party's broader electoral prospects. The ongoing controversies, coupled with a rising number of cases and attacks by central agencies, have raised questions about the BJP's effectiveness.

PM Modi has traditionally adopted a hands-off approach where sensitive issues are concerned. However, in the face of increasing public unrest and media scrutiny, this silence is increasingly being seen as a sign of complacency or, worse, complicity. A failure to address these issues promptly could result in a significant drop in public support, potentially affecting the BJP's standings in the upcoming 2024 elections.

Conclusion

The BJP-led government under Yogi Adityanath continues to grapple with the aftermath of extrajudicial killings and lacks the necessary transparency to address these issues adequately. Critics argue that if the government cannot ensure accountability, it risks eroding public trust and losing ground in the future. The upcoming political landscape will be closely watched, with expectations that a more robust approach to governance and accountability will be necessary to maintain public confidence.