New Delhi, Sep 1: The JIH Vice President, Malik Motasim Khan and JIH National Secretary Shafi Madani have issued a statement to the media voicing concern over the communal violence in Ranirbazar, Tripura and calling for immediate state intervention for helping the victims.
In the communique to the press, JIH Vice President, Malik Motasim Khan said, “We are deeply troubled by the horrific events that unfolded on the night of 25 August 2024, in the villages of Durganagar and Koitorabari, Ranirbazar, Tripura. The violent attacks targeted innocent Muslim families, resulting in the destruction of homes, vehicles, and livestock, leaving around 30 families devastated and homeless. This brutal assault, carried out by anti-social elements allegedly affiliated with Hindutva elements, shows a disturbing rise in communal tensions in Tripura.
“What is even more alarming is the apparent complicity or negligence of local authorities, including a state minister, who were present during the attacks but failed to prevent or stop the violence. It is crucial that the state takes a firm stand against any group attempting to incite communal hatred and violence. We call for urgent government intervention to address the crisis.”
Mr Khan averred, “Such incidents are a direct consequence of the dangerous narratives of “retaliatory justice” that have been propagated in the region, falsely accusing the Muslim community and justifying such communal violence. We condemn this calculated campaign of hate in the strongest terms. It is particularly concerning that the state government, led by the Chief Minister, has remained silent, offering no support or assurance to the victims. The lack of a decisive response from opposition leaders further aggravates the political and administrative failures in addressing this grave situation. The situation remains volatile, and without swift and decisive action, it risks escalating into a larger communal conflict.”
JIH National Secretary Shafi Madani stated, “The aftermath of the violence has exposed a humanitarian crisis of alarming proportions. The affected families are now without shelter, food, and basic necessities, struggling to survive in conditions that are both physically and emotionally distressing. Despite this, the local administration has imposed severe restrictions on access to the affected areas, effectively blocking relief efforts and preventing the media from reporting on the situation. This deliberate media blackout and denial of humanitarian assistance are not only unjust but also a blatant violation of the rights of the victims.
“We strongly urge the immediate lifting of these restrictions to allow humanitarian organizations to provide necessary relief to the affected families. The government must take immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of all communities in Tripura, deploying adequate security forces to prevent further violence.”
Informing the media, Mr Madani said, “We will also be working closely with other organizations to promote communal harmony and rebuild trust between communities in Tripura. The events in Ranirbazar show the destruction caused by unchecked communalism and the need for sustained efforts to protect the rights and dignity of all citizens. Jamaat-e-Islami Hind remains committed to supporting the victims and will continue to push for long-term peace, justice, and reconciliation in the region. We also call upon civil society and human rights organizations to join us in demanding justice and rehabilitation for the victims.”
