A sessions court in Bareilly recently stated that India experiences communal riots as a result of political parties favoring a specific religious group. Additionally, the court praised Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, describing him as an exemplary figure of a religious individual who occupies a position of authority with commitment and sacrifice.
Additional Sessions Judge Ravi Kumar Diwakar recently addressed the underlying causes of communal riots in India, particularly highlighting the role of political appeasement. This commentary came to light during the summoning of Maulana Tauqeer Razam, a Muslim cleric, in connection with the 2010 Bareilly riots case, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of religious tensions and political maneuvering.
Judge Diwakar pointed out,
“The main reason for riots in India is that the political parties here are engaged in appeasement of a particular religion, due to which the morale of prominent people of that particular religion increases so much and they believe that even if riots etc. if they get it done, not even a hair will be left unturned due to power protection.”
This statement underscores the perceived imbalance and favoritism that can lead to heightened tensions and ultimately, communal unrest.
The judge further implicated Maulana Tauqeer Razam as the alleged mastermind behind the Bareilly communal riots, noting a lack of action in the initial police chargesheet. The cleric’s recent speeches were also mentioned as potential catalysts for further unrest, highlighting the delicate balance of religious sentiment and public safety.
In an intriguing comparison, Judge Diwakar lauded the governance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, likening his leadership to the Platonic ideal of a ‘Philosopher King.’ He elaborated,
“If a religious person sits on the seat of power, he gets very good results, as propounded by the philosopher, Plato in his concept of the Philosopher King in his book Republic.”
This analogy draws a parallel between ancient philosophical ideals and contemporary political leadership, suggesting that a blend of wisdom and authority can lead to positive outcomes.
Concern for Safety After Gyanvapi Verdict: Justice Ravi Kumar Diwakar
The discourse extended beyond the courtroom as Judge Diwakar revealed personal repercussions stemming from his judicial decisions, particularly regarding the Gyanvapi Masjid dispute. He expressed concerns for his and his family’s safety, stating,
“But since no one has been arrested yet, my mother who lives in Luckanow and younger brother Dinesh Kumar Diwakar, who is working as Civil Judge (CD) FTC in Shahjahanpur, remain worried about my safety. And I am about theirs.”
This personal account underscores the real-world implications and pressures faced by those involved in sensitive legal and communal matters.
Furthermore, the judge highlighted the adverse reactions he faced from certain community members and officials following his verdict in the Gyanvapi case, indicating a broader societal challenge. He remarked,
“This fact is also noteworthy that ever since I have given the verdict in the Gyanvapi case, the attitude of people of a particular religion and officials towards me has become strange, as if it seems that I have committed some sin by giving the verdict in the Gyanvapi case.”
The case of Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan was specifically noted, with the judge detailing the incendiary nature of his speech and its consequences:
“The police post was set on fire and the houses of Hindus were set ablaze and women were treated indecently. Therefore, in the interest of justice, an FIR has been lodged against the accused Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.”
Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, the head of the Ittehade Millat Council, is accused of delivering a speech to a Muslim assembly in 2010, where he expressed animosity towards Hindus, vowing to “shed rivers of blood, destroy their homes and shops, set them ablaze, and orchestrate their looting.”
Following this incendiary address, disturbances erupted in Bareilly on March 2, 2010, as observed by the judge.
Consequently, the Court has summoned Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan to appear before it on March 11.
This detailed examination of the factors leading to communal riots, the role of political appeasement, and the personal toll on judicial figures offers a comprehensive insight into the complexities of maintaining communal harmony and justice in a diverse society like India. The case continues to unfold, with broader implications for the interplay between religion, politics, and law enforcement in the region.
Also Read- Varanasi Court Verdict: Hindu Rituals Permitted In Gyanvapi (lawchakra.in)
