Indian Social Group Complains Of Police Harassment

The Popular Front of India (PFI) -- a social organization, predominantly operating in India's southernmost state of Kerala -- has alleged that authorities are harassing its members, involved in a campaign against hate crime and attacks on minorities.

"After pasting posters [about the campaign] in capital New Delhi and neighboring Uttar Pradesh (UP) province, police has started harassing our members," said Muhammad Pervez Ahmad, provincial president of the PFI.

He claimed that police have arrested its members and foisted false cases on them in western UP towns of Shamli and Meerut. He said Delhi Police was also frequented their office in the name of inquiry.

"We are not objecting occasional visits of officials to our offices. But disturbing daily routine is not justifiable," said Ahmed.

In order to highlight crimes against minorities, the PFI has launched a nationwide campaign with the slogan, "Live without Fear, Live with Dignity". The campaign ending on August 31, involved displaying posters, distribution of handbills, street corner meetings, seminars and public meetings all over India. Ahmad pleaded authorities to stop harassment, as their campaign was democratic and legal.

The PFI Chairman E. Abubacker pointed out that over recent past attacks against Muslims and Dalits (lower caste Hindus) have become a daily occurrence in the country. "They are being brutally lynched anywhere on flimsy grounds," he said. -