MUMBAI — Speakers at a conference here on Thursday expressed grave concerns over the growing atrocities on minorities and backward classes.

The conference titled “Nai Sarkar Purana Atyachar” was convened by Aman wa Insaf Morcha, a coalition of scholars, social workers, and lawyers from diverse backgrounds. It called on the government to curb the growing persecution of the weaker sections of society, especially in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

Shakir Shaikh, acting as the moderator, emphasised the conference’s objective. “Our primary demand is for the new government to change its stance and remind the opposition of its responsibility to uphold the constitution, especially concerning atrocities inflicted on minorities and backward classes,” he said. Shaikh stressed the need for a robust opposition to champion justice and safeguard their rights effectively.

Dr. Vivek Korde, noted social activist, underscored the current challenges. “Since the new government took office, our collective responsibilities have escalated. Secularism must be fortified, and we must address media, political, and religious leaders’ encroachments on personal liberties. Government interference in religious affairs must cease, while interfaith dialogues should be fostered to strengthen communal harmony,” he said.

Renowned social activist Teesta Setalvad commented on the pre- and post-election scenario, asserting, “Hatred and divisive rhetoric must end. Stern actions should be taken against instigators. The systematic deprivation of constitutional rights persists, necessitating open discussions on safeguarding the rights of minorities and women.”

Dr. Saleem Khan of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind called for widespread awareness to combat atrocities against minorities, condemning ruling party actions as intolerable and unconstitutional. Senior cleric Maulana Mahmood Daryabadi criticised the current regime for what he described as an “undeclared emergency” spanning the last decade, accusing it of undermining minority rights through unconstitutional and inhumane practices.

Maulana Zaheer Abbas Rizvi, president of the Shia Ulama Board of Maharashtra, emphasised the nation’s rich cultural tapestry. “India has always been a beacon of peace and unity. Dividing the country on religious or linguistic lines is futile and against our constitutional ethos. It is incumbent upon the government to protect our constitution and uphold citizens’ rights,” he said.

Prominent cleric Maulana Anees Ashrafi urged the government to focus on legal and policy reforms, advocating for equal development and justice over discrimination and hostility. Farid Sheikh of the Mumbai Peace Committee warned against the repercussions of governmental discrimination, urging the media and responsible citizens to uphold the country’s unity and integrity.

The conference concluded with a unified call for immediate action to restore and protect the rights of marginalised communities, underscoring the imperative of governmental accountability and societal solidarity.