KARACHI:
The registration of a case of “criminal conspiracy and promoting enmity on grounds of religion” by Delhi Police against the 18-year-old Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg who came out in support of the ongoing farmers protest is reflective of the Hindutva-inspired draconian laws in India — a country that boasts of being the largest democracy in the world. Since August last year, hundreds of thousands of Sikh farmers have continued to gather on the outskirts of New Delhi to demonstrate against controversial agricultural reforms that were announced without their consultation.
Farmers argue that these new laws will leave them worse off by making it easier for corporations to exploit agricultural workers and help big companies drive down prices. The laws are contentious because agriculture is the primary source of livelihood for about 58% of India’s 1.3 billion population. It seems that the government doesn’t realise that these farmers are the biggest voter block in the country, making them central to the political issues of the state.
Speaking of the young Greta Thunberg, police harassment could not deter her from supporting a rightful cause. Soon after Delhi Police filed the FIR against her, she tweeted about her unflinching support to their peaceful protest. “No amount of hate, threats or violations will ever change that,” she asserted. What is all the more admirable is the fact that the Swedish activist has actually suggested measures, such as a protest ‘toolkit’
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has sharply reacted to Thunberg’s tweets taking the stance that sensationalist social media hashtags and comments should not be used, especially by celebrities, since they aren’t based on hardcore facts. How can these comments be refuted as inaccurate when the situation on ground is for all to see? We need more people like Greta to help resolve this burning issue.
Salma Tahir
Lahore
Published in The Express Tribune, February 12th, 2021.
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