– Mohd.Naushad Khan
New Delhi – Hundreds gathered at Jantar Mantar on Wednesday in a strong show of support for Palestine. The protest was titled “As Gaza Starves, World Stands Silent” and was organised by Friends of Palestine.
Activists, students, civil society members, and political leaders joined the protest. They stood against what they called the genocide, blockade, and starvation in Gaza.
Protesters held placards reading “Death of Human Rights,” “From the River to the Sea, Palestine Will Be Free,” “Bombing Children Is Not Self-Defence,” and “Starvation Is a War Crime.” Loud chants demanded an end to the crisis and urged international action.
S.Q.R. Ilyas, former Welfare Party President and AIMPLB spokesperson, condemned global silence. “Resolutions are not enough. The world must act against Israel,” he said. He questioned Israel’s military strength, citing failed hostage rescues and the Iran conflict. Ilyas urged India to show moral leadership. “If India wants to be a vishwaguru, it must act for Palestine,” he added.
Delhi University professor Nandita Narayan said the issue was about justice, not religion. “It’s not Hindu vs Muslim. It’s about humanity,” she said. She slammed silent governments and praised South Africa and Iran for taking a stand. She criticised India’s alignment with the U.S. and Israel, calling it “shameful.”
SIO President Abdul Hafeez condemned Israel for killing starving Palestinians. He spoke against attacks on aid seekers and asked the world to uphold humanitarian laws.
JNU Student Union President Nitish Kumar compared today’s government to the RSS during British rule. “Just like RSS supported the British, BJP now sides with oppressors,” he said. He accused the government of abandoning India’s traditional support for Palestine.
Speakers included journalist Salim Khan, CPI(ML)’s Akash Bhattacharya, GIO’s Afifa, AISA’s Saurav, and Mubasshir from Mewat Students Union. All demanded an end to the Gaza genocide and the blockade.
The protest ended with strong calls for continued resistance and global unity with Palestine.
