India
The lawyer representing the self-styled godman ‘Bhole Baba’ has blamed “anti-social elements” for the tragic incident in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, where a young Dalit woman was brutally assaulted and subsequently succumbed to her injuries. The statement has sparked widespread outrage and demands for justice from various quarters of society.
Advocate Rajesh Singh, speaking on behalf of Bhole Baba, asserted that the incident was a calculated move by disruptive elements to tarnish the image of spiritual leaders and sow discord in the community. “This tragedy is the work of anti-social elements who are trying to destabilize the social harmony and malign respected figures like Bhole Baba,” Singh stated at a press conference.
The remarks have been met with severe criticism from activists, political leaders, and the general public, who view them as an attempt to deflect attention from the need for justice and accountability.
Prominent social activist Rina Devi expressed her indignation, saying, “Such statements are not only insensitive but also dangerous. They divert the focus from the real issue of ensuring justice for the victim and addressing the systemic issues that allow such heinous crimes to occur.”
Political leaders have also weighed in on the controversy. Congress spokesperson Anil Sharma called the statement “outrageous and irresponsible,” urging the authorities to take swift action against those attempting to shield the perpetrators. “This is not the time for baseless accusations. We need to stand together to ensure justice for the victim and her family,” Sharma emphasized.
The Hathras tragedy, which occurred in September 2020, involved the brutal gang rape and subsequent death of a 19-year-old Dalit woman. The incident garnered national and international attention, leading to protests and demands for stringent actions against the accused. The handling of the case by local authorities has been widely criticized, with allegations of a cover-up and mishandling of evidence.
Legal experts have pointed out that such statements by representatives of influential figures can have serious social implications. “Blaming vague ‘anti-social elements’ without evidence can hinder the investigation and justice process. It is crucial that all statements and actions support the legal proceedings and the quest for justice,” said Supreme Court lawyer Manish Gupta.
The statement by Bhole Baba’s lawyer has added another layer of complexity to an already sensitive and emotionally charged case. As investigations continue, the focus remains on securing justice for the victim and addressing the broader issues of caste-based violence and gender inequality in India.
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