A meeting organised by the Minority Coordination Committee (MCC), Gujarat, which observed the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief on August 22 at Siddiqabad rehabilitation colony in Ahmedabad, has insisted that the 2002 Gujarat riots are a living example of oppression based on religion.
Speaking on the occasion, MCC convener Mujahid Nafees said, the victims of the communal carnage haven't yet been properly compensated by the government, and many of them have still not been rehabilitated. Road, water and street lights have not provided to rehabilitation colonies like Siddiqabad, which was set up by a private trust, as the government did not provide housing to the victims.
Explaining the importance of the day, Nafees said, incidents of attacks on religion and people of other faiths have increased worldwide, one reason why the United Nations at its 73rd session seriously discussed events around the world and resolved to observe August 22 to remember the victims of communal violence.
Addressing the well-attended meet, Sarkhej ward councilor Nafisaben Ansari said, there is a need to press upon the authorities about the rights of the riot victims. Senior activist Ikram Beg Mirza wanted a united struggle for this, adding, rehabilitation of the riots victims should be their top priority.
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