A defining moment to transform history: Lok Satta

Lok Satta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan said that the tragic death of gang-rape victim Nirbhaya should be viewed as a defining moment in the life of Indian society and harnessed property to transform history.

Dr. JP said in a media statement that Nirbhaya’s courageous fight against heavy odds symbolizes the spirit and resolve of young people even as the episode mirrors the evil that pervades our society.

Conveying Lok Satta Party’s deepest sympathies to the grieving parents and family, Dr. JP said the tragedy should help us focus on two fundamental issues: First, what the State and society should do to make our homes and public spaces safe for all citizens, especially women. We need to act with clarity and resolve on legal, institutional, educational, police, society and family fronts.

“It is easy to focus on one or two areas and ignore the rest. That will be an act of cowardice. We need to focus the searchlight into ourselves and convert the tragedy into an opportunity for a more humane, gender-sensitive and civilized society.”

Second, the episode highlights the neglect and failure of the Indian State in discharging its primary duty. In any civilized society, the Government should focus on protection of citizens. It encompasses maintenance of public order, rule of law, competent, effective, impartial and fair policing, speedy and efficient justice delivery and building of institutions and infrastructure to facilitate these outcomes.

“The Indian State has woefully neglected these areas because they are not regarded as significant for vote mobilization. It is time that we changed our attitude and make the State do its primary job.

“Even at this late hour, we can act with determination and integrity on these two fronts. That will be a fitting tribute to the young life that is snuffed out prematurely. It will be a creative and honest response to the angst that millions of Indians now share.”

At the Lok Satta Party headquarters, leaders observed two minutes of silence to express their grief over the death of Nirbhay. State party General Secretary Katari Srinivasa Rao and Greater Hyderabad unit President M. Satyanarayana were among those who took part in the program.