Supreme Court order highlights the bigotry and prejudice behind the mob violence

Highlights

• The Supreme Court order calling for a special law to deal with lynching sends a strong message about the growing phenomenon of mob violence. From vigilante violence targeting cattle traders in the name of cow protection, it has taken a new turn.
• While the former was organised vigilantism, the recent spate of killings seemingly comprises impulsive and unplanned acts of violence, fuelled by rumour and panic-inducing social media messaging.
• The police say the circulation of videos and other messages about child-lifters through messaging apps is the main reason.
• Supreme Court has significantly located lynching and vigilante violence in a socio-political framework linked to disrespect for an inclusive social order, rising intolerance and growing polarisation.

Preventive, punitive and remedial measures

• Making lynching a separate offence, A special law would “instil a sense of fear” among those involved.

The judgment places the onus on the law and order machinery to prevent and punish lynchings. But we must heed what it says on the role of bigotry, non-acceptance of plurality and diversity in creating an atmosphere where human beings are dehumanised: one in which freedom of speech, expression and personal choices are endangered.

Source: The Hindu