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Against politics of violence

For democratic & SUSTAINABLE development


Formation of
Janachetana manch
A mass awareness forum
CONVENTION
29 NOVEMBER, 2009 12 P.M. SUJATA SADAN [HAZRA]

The way we think


There is an urgent need to mobilize strong public opinion against violence in general and political violence
in particular, rampant in West Bengal and in several parts of the country.
This all-pervading violence threatens the very fabric of our normal social life and interaction. It creates an
environment of bitter divide, fear, danger and mistrust among people.
The Indian nation is under the onslaught of a ceaseless trail of violence be it in the form of communal
riots/assaults, caste-based attacks or separatist and insurgent conflicts.
In West Bengal however, the violence that dominates the society is blatantly political. It is high time that a
strong and unequivocal protest is built up and resolutely voiced against this violence which is destroying all
social, cultural and economic activity and growth in the State.
There is no place for violence in a democracy. For in a democracy, people have the power to attain
desired social goals by the force of public opinion evolved through a healthy and peaceful exchange of
ideas and resolving of differences and disputes by debates and negotiations.
In a multi-dimensional democracy, violence in words and deeds must be shunned and curtailed. If not, the
forces of tyranny who are intolerant and inimical towards pluralistic living, will be further strengthened and
emboldened.
Tragically, even the mainstream political parties that indulge in violent acts for narrow electoral and
organizational gains, indifferent to the consequences of their actions, are fast losing the moral right to
condemn the large scale and brutal violence and terror unleashed by anti-democratic forces.
The Rule of Law, a vital aspect of Democracy, must be protected at all costs. The State has to be made to
function within the Law, with sensitivity and respect for the rights, interests and aspirations of the people.
Only then can the autocratic and despotic tendencies in society be rooted out and annihilated.
The increasing economic DISPARITY and deprivation has marginalized and impoverished large sections
of people. Their anger and desperation is being used by anti democratic forces to fuel mindless violence.
Immediately it is necessary to unite and launch a peaceful campaign for an integrated and sustainable pro-
people policy of development.
Not guns and blood, only mass awareness and the vigilant role of citizens and social and constitutional
bodies, can together ensure that the government, self-governing institutions and peoples'
representatives function in a democratic, honest and transparent manner.
VIOLENCE IS NOT THE ANSWER TO AN ACT OF VIOLENCE.
VIOLENCE AND COUNTER VIOLENCE SHOULD BE REJECTED IN NO UNCERTAIN TERMS.
Janachetana Manch is formed to mobilize public opinion on socially relevant issues like the above. We
believe that this voice against violence - so important under the present day situation - will emerge as a
social movement for a healthy and civilized social life.
We call upon you to join us in this momentous effort and bring others along with you.
Please donate for helping this cause.
...PREPARATORY COMMITTEE

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