Mumbai: The People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) has condemned the arrests of five Dalit activists from all over the country, calling it a systematic and predetermined crackdown on those who fight against atrocities on Dalits.
The PUCL condemned the arrest calling it an attack on the people’s right to expression. A section of the social media also condemned the arrests. Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mevani said in a tweet, “While the dalit activists have been booked under UAPA, the main culprit, Sambhaji Bhide roams scot free.” Republican Party leader Prakash Ambedkar called it the government’s attempt to divert attention from right-wing activist Sambhaji Bhide, whereas other parties called it an attempt to hide failure under false accusations.
“This arrest is part of government’s constant attempt to save the main culprit Sambhaji Bhide. We have been saying this that Bhide is the mastermind of the attack on dalits gathered at Bhima-Koregaon on June 1. We have submitted the proof of Facebook posts of his supporters inviting others to come to the place on January 1. But ignoring that, police are arresting people who have no connection with this incident,” said Mr Ambedkar. He condemned the arrest of Sudheer Dhavale and other activists as well.
Communist leader Prakash Reddy also slammed the government over arrest. “This fascist government is saving its supporters in Bhima Koregaon case. But people are not fools. They understand the designs of this government,” he said.
The NCP also condemned the arrest of the activists. “Pune rally at Shanivar Vada and Bhima-Koregaon incidents are two different things. But the government, in an attempt to save its own people, is now arresting the wrong people. This government will get exposed if the real probe take place in Bhima-Koregaon riots,” said NCP chief spokesperson Nawab Malik. Reacting to reports of the arrests, Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant said, “The entire state knows the instigator of Bhima-Koregaon riots. But to divert attention from him, the BJP government is arresting dalit activists.”
