Urgent Need to Strengthen Mechanisms Amid Growing Concerns of Communal Hatred
Expressing grave concern over the rising instances of hate speech and communal hostility, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Kumar Jha said on Tuesday that existing regulatory bodies like the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the National Commission for Minorities (NCM) have become insufficient to curb such incidents.
Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Jha highlighted that hate speech and divisive actions have become disturbingly normalized in society, providing undeserved prominence to otherwise obscure individuals.
Drawing Lessons from History to Avoid Future Tragedies
Reflecting on historical events, Jha cited a former United Nations Secretary-General's poignant remark, "The tradition of hate created the Gas Chamber," referencing the Holocaust in Germany. He further drew parallels to countries such as Bosnia, Cambodia, and Rwanda, known for past civil unrest fueled by communal hatred.
"I do not want to see my country on this list," Jha asserted strongly, underlining the necessity of immediate action to prevent similar tragedies in India.
Ensuring Peaceful Celebrations Amid Rising Tensions
Manoj Kumar Jha emphasized the critical importance of maintaining peace and harmony, especially during festivals. He expressed regret that revisiting historical events and disputes has become a troubling norm, often triggering communal tension.
Highlighting the existing fear within society, Jha remarked, "The reality today is that people want peaceful passage of festivals without any tragedy."
An Appeal for Unity Through Poetry
Concluding his powerful address, the RJD MP recited an Urdu couplet, poetically illustrating the tragedy of people remaining distant despite physical closeness, bound by barriers of their own making.
The MP’s passionate appeal underscored the urgent need for stronger regulatory frameworks to combat hate speech and uphold India's communal harmony.