PUCL Bulletin, May 2001

Killing of 25 Muslims in Kanpur by PAC

By Syed Shahabuddin

The Chairman, National Human Rights Commission, New Delhi
Subject: Request for Suo Motu Intervention in Kanpur Violence Case in March 2001

Sir,
During the recent violence in Kanpur during 16-25 March, 2001, the local police and the PAC are reported to have shot dead at least 25 persons without any justification, looted many shops and establishments, burnt many structures, including some places of worship, forced their entry into many houses and harassed the womenfolk and looted moveable property.

Several delegations have after on-the-spot investigation, condemned the police and the armed constabulary and demanded judicial inquiry and full compensation to the victims.

A joint delegation of women's organisation has in its report submitted to the Commission demanded its intervention from the human rights angle.
We support their demand and request you to take up suo motu the alleged massive violation of human rights in Kanpur during disturbances of 16-25 March, 2001.

We would like to add our own conclusion that Kanpur is not a case of Hindu-Muslim riot but of police action against the Muslim community with a political motive, following a clash between peaceful demonstrators on the Tehelka affair and the activities of the Sangh Parivar.

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