From February 24th to 25th, 2020, New Delhi witnessed widespread anti-Hindu riots. The violence that engulfed New Delhi wasn’t merely a response to the anti-CAA protests; it was a deliberate onslaught targeting Hindus. Extremist elements, exploiting the anti-CAA sentiment, orchestrated a systematic campaign of violence primarily directed at Hindu communities. Areas like Shahdara, Maujpur, Bhajanpura, and Brahmapuri became battlegrounds, witnessing brutal attacks aimed at instilling fear and wreaking havoc among Hindus. The riots, which claimed the lives of 53 individuals and injured over 200, were a stark manifestation of the calculated persecution faced by Hindus under the guise of anti-CAA protests. In light of OpIndia Nupur Sharma’s compelling insights at the ‘Justice for Delhi Riot Victims’ event organized by the Indraprastha Vishwa Samvada Kendra (IVSK). The real truth behind the Delhi riots of 2020 is much more horrifying than commonly perceived. Her speech sheds light on the systemic failures within the judiciary and law enforcement, as well as the alarming bias against Hindus that permeates the legal system.
1. Systemic bias against Hindus in the judiciary
One of the most concerning revelations from Sharma’s speech is the systemic bias against Hindus within the judiciary. The case of Dinesh Yadav, who was unjustly jailed for five years merely for being present near the location of the riots, stands as a stark example of this bias. Despite the lack of evidence against him, Yadav was incarcerated solely because of his Hindu identity, a clear miscarriage of justice that cannot be ignored. On the other hand, Islamist extremists have been granted bail even though they were present at the riot locations, simply because they were not found with weapons, highlighting a bias in the judicial system.
2. Legal proceedings and investigations targeting Hindus
Sharma’s discourse also underscores the flaws in legal proceedings and investigations pertaining to the Delhi riots. While nine Muslims directly involved in the riots were granted bail, individuals like Dinesh Yadav faced imprisonment without any substantive evidence against them. This glaring discrepancy in the treatment of individuals based on their religious affiliation raises serious questions about the integrity and impartiality of the legal system. The retired Supreme Court judge, Justice Lokur, was biased towards Hindus. The violence that erupted in Delhi was not a spontaneous, one-day plan. Acid pouches, petrol bombs, and weapons were prepared in advance with the intent to harm Hindus, indicating meticulous planning. It was not an overnight response to the CAA; rather, it was a premeditated act of violence aimed at teaching Kafir (a non-Muslim) a lesson. Criminals like Umar Khalid, Zakir, and Tahir Hussain managed to evade accountability within the judicial system, partly due to the leniency of the judicial process and judges like Justice Lokur.
3. Hindu victims and escaping Islamists: judicial loopholes
The case of IB officer Ankit Sharma, who was brutally stabbed more than 50 times by Islamist mobs, highlights the callous disregard for Hindu lives and the reluctance to acknowledge the severity of the violence perpetrated against them. Justice Lokur’s characterization of Sharma’s murder as a mere “death” reflects a disturbing lack of empathy and accountability within the judicial system, as well as the mindset of Islamism. The main accused, Tahir Hussain, who had prior criminal records, was released due to a lack of evidence, despite his major involvement. Hussain’s release of weapons from the police department and his presence at the scene of Ankit Sharma’s murder should have warranted swift and decisive action. In the 189-page report, Hussain’s name appears seven times. Regrettably, Justice Lokur, diligently supported Islamist perpetrators, preached to Hindus to remain secular and uphold peace in society, and dismissed the case.
4. Kapil Sibal’s legal maneuvering
Islamist Umar Khalid, who was one of the primary accused, withdrew his bail plea before the Supreme Court in the Delhi anti-Hindu riots in February 2020, with senior advocate Kapil Sibal representing him. The withdrawal, citing “changed circumstances,” aimed to pursue bail afresh before the trial court. Regarding the reasons behind the withdrawal, Khalid’s father cited lengthy proceedings as a factor. Despite portraying the delay as unjust, Khalid’s attempt to garner sympathy underscored the lack of clarity on the actual reasons behind the withdrawal, the portrayal of victimhood amidst minority status, and the alleged absence of evidence.
5. Importance of Hindu organizations like VHP, Bajrang Dal
In the Hindu community, organizations like Bhajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) hold significant importance for various reasons, and showing respect to these organizations is highly valued. Sharma emphasized the importance of Hindu organizations, highlighting their readiness and courage to confront riots perpetrated by Islamist extremists. Despite risking their lives, these organizations are prepared to offer assistance and combat such violence.
They play crucial roles in preserving Hindu culture, traditions, and values. They actively promote Hindu festivals, rituals, and customs, helping to maintain the rich tapestry of Hindu heritage and Hindu Dharma. They are always ready to extend support to those in need, reflecting the core Hindu principle of seva (selfless service). Whenever there is an issue concerning Hindu communities, including religious freedom, temple rights, and crimes against Hindus, they are known for their efforts in safeguarding dharma (righteousness).
Nupur Sharma highlighted in her speech a scenario where individuals find themselves in challenging situations, with Islamist extremists posing a threat and police seemingly unavailable, even intentionally ignoring distress calls. In such dire circumstances, organizations like Bhajrang Dal and VHP emerge as crucial pillars, offering support and protection to the Hindu community. Showing respect to the Hindu activists is important as it acknowledges their contributions to Hindu society and recognizes their efforts in preserving Hindu culture, promoting social welfare, and safeguarding Hindu Dharma.
Nupur Sharma highlighted the horrifying moments of the Delhi riots, emphasizing that Hindus are not safe and crimes against them have occurred and continue to happen. She underscored the ongoing persecution against Hindus and the likelihood of future incidents. Sharma urged courage in facing these challenges, stressing the need for resilience amidst adversity. In conclusion, Nupur Sharma’s impassioned address at the ‘Justice for Delhi Riot Victims’ event serves as a sobering reminder of the entrenched biases and systemic injustices that continue to plague the judicial system of Bharat.
The Delhi riots of 2020 stand as a grim testament to the fragility of communal harmony and the deep-seated fissures within society. The severe, deep rooted violence against Hindus, amidst the backdrop of anti-CAA protests, reveals a sinister agenda driven by religious Islamist extremism and political manipulation. The targeting of Hindu Dharma underscores a deliberate attempt to instill fear and assert dominance. The atrocities committed against Hindus, coupled with the apparent bias in the judicial system, paint a disturbing picture of systemic inadequacies and injustices.
