PANAJI
The Council for Social Justice and Peace (CSJP), the social work wing of the Archdiocese of Goa, has expressed its deep anguish and profound concern over the “heavy-handed State clampdown on the youth-led peaceful protest” held at Jantar Mantar, Delhi, on Saturday.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, CSJP Executive Secretary Fr Savio Fernandes stated that the enormous number of forces summoned to handle the peaceful protest has created a war-like situation causing panic across among peace loving citizens.
“The forceful restriction of young citizens seeking accountability regarding the recent Special Intensive Revision is a severe compromise of fundamental rights when public dissent is a foundational pillar of Indian democracy,” stated Fr Fernandes.
“The unfolding events should trouble the conscience of every Indian who believes in democratic principles. No government, institution, or authority is above accountability to the people it serves.”
“We strongly condemn the transit bans, preventive detentions, and blanket restrictions imposed to stifle this gathering. Freedom of speech, expression, and peaceful assembly are sacred rights guaranteed under the Constitution of India. Denying the youth their right to gather peacefully not only violates these constitutional guarantees but also silences the vital moral conscience of our nation.”
The CSJP has called upon the State and national administrative authorities to immediately lift these blanket bans and respect the democratic framework of our nation.
“True governance is marked by open dialogue and the protection of civil liberties, not the suppression of peaceful citizens. We pray for wisdom, restraint, and justice to prevail, and stand in solidarity with all those peacefully seeking transparency and accountability,” the statement added.
