S Hasan Zia Rizvi, TwoCircles.net,
Lucknow: Rihai Manch, Forum for the Release of Innocent Muslims imprisoned in the name of Terrorism, organized a public hearing and protest against the Samjwadi Party Government for the victims of Kosi Kalan riots in Mathura on 1 June, 2012 at the UP Press Club in the state capital.
Many social workers and senior journalists extended their support by their participation. The representatives and guardians of almost 50 victims spoke about their sufferings on the stage as they demanded a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Many victims spoke of how they lost most of the members in their family, or how their houses were burnt. It’s been nine months and there is no sign of justice, they lamented, and thanked the Rihai Manch, which gave them a platform to speak.
According to victims, some local politicians tried to bribe them by giving money for withdrawing their case against perpetrators of crime.
Mother of two twin brothers Farzana said that in front of her eyes her son and brother-in-law were slashed and burnt alive and yet their “killers are wandering scot-free.”
Former IG and General Secretary of Rihahi Manch, SR Darapuri
Similar heart-rending and shocking truths revealed by many victims of the riots like Mohd. Sadiq, Fakhruddin who started crying for help on the stage.
Former IG and Secretary General of the Rihai Manch, SR Darapuri said, “SP government is trying to create communal polarization in the state by such riots, despite coming to power with the help of the Muslim votes.”
He added, “They way government has treated Muslims it seems we are in Narendra Modi’s Gujarat (and not UP).”
Member of the Muslim Personal law Board, Naseem Iqtedar Ali said, “It is clear from the 27 riots in a year of SP government that creating communal tension is part of their agenda to remain in power.”
Kosi Kalan riot victim Farzana
Ajay Singh, senior journalist, pointed out that the Akhilesh Yadav led state government has completely failed in maintaining law and order in the state.
Indian Social Peace Society secretary Mohammad Shahid Qureshi also alleged that it was a ‘pre-planned’ riot. “The riots were plotted five days before in Vrindavan by the RSS and BJP leaders and they have demolished the whole district of Muslims, burnt their houses and shops and still police is unable to take any action against the political criminals,” he said.
Justice Rajendra Sachar is expected to release a report on the Kosi Kalan on Sunday.