Decoding Nava Kerala Sadas: A Platform for Public Engagement or Encouraging Violence?
Exploring the Controversies and Concerns Surrounding Recent Incidents and Their Impact on Public Safety
The ongoing Nava Kerala Sadas, designed for public engagement, has encountered violent issues. A recent incident involving the Chief Minister’s security personnel raises concerns about escalating confrontations. Youth Congress workers faced reported attacks for displaying a black flag. And it reveals a troubling pattern of security personnel resorting to force. Unfortunately, these incidents aren’t isolated. Multiple clashes during Nava Kerala Sadas raise doubts about its overall management.
On November 21, 2023, in Kannur, DYFI members allegedly attacked Youth Congress workers. It caused severe injuries, and shockingly, one protester suffered hearing loss, and police worsened the situation by using water cannons.
In Perumbavoor on December 12, 2023, DYFI workers allegedly attacked Congress MLA Eldhose Kunnappilly and Municipal Chairman Biju John Jacob. Notably, this occurred in a hospital, not during a flag-waving incident.
A troubling disclosure came from Kannur on November 21, where Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan justified a DYFI attack on Youth Congress workers as a ‘rescue operation.’ He praised DYFI, raising concerns about using excessive force under the pretext of public safety.
Security Personnel’s Role and Limitationsrohit
It’s crucial to understand the role of the Chief Minister’s security personnel in ensuring the safety of the Chief Minister. Their duty primarily focuses on safeguarding the Chief Minister. And there are clear limitations on using force against peaceful protesters. The duty doesn’t grant them the authority to attack individuals expressing dissent through non-violent means, such as displaying a black flag.
Protocol Violation and Legal Consequences:
The actions of the security personnel constitute a violation of established protocols. Attacking peaceful protesters contradicts the principles of maintaining public safety without resorting to unnecessary force. This breach of protocol may lead to legal consequences. The potential charges are under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and the Kerala Police Act.
Exploring Consequences and Reforms
The Chief Minister’s support for violence raises serious questions, setting a worrying example that undermines fair governance. It makes people doubt leaders’ commitment to maintaining peace. And potentially violating laws related to encouraging violence and public safety. Leaders need accountability to maintain public trust and ensure safety during protests.
Beyond awareness, there’s a need for an inquiry, holding those responsible accountable. Citizens should advocate reforms in training and deploying security personnel during public events. Community-led dialogue can contribute to a safer and more inclusive public engagement.
In conclusion, the recent incident in Alappuzha contributes to a disturbing narrative of violence surrounding Nava Kerala Sadas. A transparent inquiry is crucial to restore public trust in meaningful public engagement. Understanding the limitations of security personnel, recognizing protocol violations, and holding them accountable under legal provisions is imperative for ensuring a balance between public safety and the right to dissent.
