Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Ahmedabad (Fides Service) - The Government of Gujarat state in western India, admitted that all evidence relating to the massacres of 2002 - when about 2,000 Muslim citizens were killed, attacked by thousands of militant Hindu radicals – have been destroyed: all files and intelligence reports have been eliminated "according to existing procedures" that allow you to destroy "documents of irrelevant inquiry". The news has created confusion and indignation among the victims’ lawyers and in civil society, also because many of the trials of alleged perpetrators are still pending.
"It is a clear sign of injustice", says Fr. Cedric Prakash, a Jesuit from India, responsible for "Prashant," Center for Human Rights, Justice and Peace, based in Ahmedabad, the capital of Gujarat in a message sent to Fides . "One must not wonder. What has happened proves the Government of Gujarat’s responsibilities", the Jesuit underlines, explaining that, in this way, impunity for political leaders involved in organizing the massacres is ensured. Some months ago a special commission of inquiry had shown serious responsibility of the then Prime Minister of the state, Narendra Modi, a leader known for his proximity to the radical Hindu groups.
"There will be no justice if one allows to eliminate the evidence against criminals and conspirators, still on trial in court", notes Fr. Prakash, asking the Supreme Court of India to intervene on its own initiative to prosecute political leaders in power in Gujarat in 2002.
The Jesuit talks about the current situation in Gujarat: "Ten years after the massacres, the victims still want justice. Ahmedabad and other cities in the state are still rigidly divided along lines that separate the different communities, especially Hindus and Muslims. And discrimination against religious minorities is evident in all spheres, especially in the field of education and employment". He concludes with an appeal: "In 600 years of the foundation of Ahmedabad, a city founded by the leader Ahmed Shah according to the criteria of coexistence, respect and tolerance, I say to the city: wake up! And rediscover your roots in peace and harmony". (PA) (Agenzia Fides 01/07/2011)
