Pics: Umesh Marpalli

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Jul 13: Members of dalit, backward class, minorities, and progressive thinking associations’ union staged protest near Martyrs memorial ground Ajjarkad here on Friday, July 12 against mob lynching, that has taken place in many parts of the nation.

K Paniraj, condemning the incidents of mob lynching said, “From 2015-19, as many as 100 innocent people have become victims of mob lynching. Prathap Shetty case was brutal and inhuman. Four mob lynching cases were reported in just a week. The first spark was lit in Adi Udupi in 2004. People are developing caste hatred within themselves. Harassment and mob lynching should be stopped. Democracy is under threat and there is conspiracy going against Constitution.

“Let us think of protecting Indian Constitution, drafted by Dr B R Ambendkar,” he said.

Vishwanath Rai, president of CITU, said, “Everyone should get equal justice as we are in a democratic country. CITU and other organization will continue its protest.”

Yogish Shetty, JD(S) district president said, “India is a nation of unity in diversity. But some anti-social activities are taking place. Harassment and gang rapes on Dalit girls are constantly taking place in the nation. There is no opposition party for the central government. Let public arise. One BJP leader said that if they came to power, they will change the Constitution. These people do no respect Constitution. What can be expected from them?” he asked.

“Both the state and union government should focus on maintaining law and order and peace. Everyone has the right to protest in a democratic country,” he added.

A huge protest rally was carried out from Clock Tower to Ajjarkad as part of the protest meeting.

Various organisations’ leaders like Vishwanath Pethri, Shekhar Hejamady, Hussain Kodibengre, Indris Hoode, Balakrishna Shetty, Kaviraj, William Martis, Yogish Shetty, Prashanth Jathanna and others were present.