Daijiworld Media Network - Kasargod (SB)

Kasargod, Jan 3: A silent protest to express solidarity with Fr Stan Swamy demanding his release from jail led by Catholic Sabha, Kasargod deanery was held on the afternoon of Sunday, January 3 at Seethangoli and Uppala junctions.

Leading the protest Wilfred Manohar Crasta, president Catholic Sabha, Kasargod deanery said, "Fr Stan Swamy is the pioneer of education in the tribal regions of Jharkhand and Bihar. He lived for the poor and worked to bring them forward in society. He has raised his voice against the exploitation of Dalits and other backward communities. Being an educationalist he provided them with education and gave their villages a new dimension. The selfless service of Fr Stan did not sit well with those who are against the upliftment of the backward tribes. These have people have succeeded in their task by accusing him in the Bhima-Koregaon riots and accusing him of having links with Maoists. The government, in this case, has arrested educationalists and activists. Police have also failed to secure any proof against them but still, they are in jail. This is condemnable and we have the right to protest against such undemocratic moves of the government."

Addressing the protesters Sudheer Master, activists and educationalists said, "We are gathered here to know the reason behind the arrest of Fr Stan Swamy who has educated thousands of tribal children in northern parts of India. Fr Stan Swamy who was born in Tamil Nadu worked as a religious missionary in Karnataka and in parts of Bihar and Jharkhand. Three months back NIA arrested him from a village near Ranchi. This shocked all of us who know Fr Stan and his contributions to society. He has always stood for justice and believes in national integrity. He dreamt of an educated India and believes in working for the development of villages. Now, the government has booked him on false allegations and put him behind bars."

The arrest of Fr Stan Swamy and other intellectuals against the constitution and the word  ‘Satyameva Jayate’ which is written on our ‘Ashoka Stambha’. By arresting these people the government wants to send an indirect message to all social workers and those involved in social reforms. In a democratic country, it is not acceptable and we should raise our voice against this. I salute the people gathered here to show solidarity with Fr Stan and others. This is the start and we will not stop here. In upcoming days we will protest in large numbers until the release of Fr Stan.” He added.

Fr John Vas, vicar forane, Kasargod, Fr J B Crasta, and hundreds of supporters participated in the protest. Raju Stephan Kumbla, nominated president, Catholic Sabha, Mangaluru, Fr Francis, Babu Thomas, retired police inspector, Yesu Prasad, Raj Kumar led the protest at Uppala.