ISLAMABAD: Amnesty International has released two new investigation reports on the use of the bulldozers on the punitive demolitions targeting Muslim community in India, an issue that demands global attention.
The move is a deeply concerning issue and demands attention of international community to stop the hideous practice. The use of J.C. Bamford Excavators Limited (JCB) branded bulldozers has become a symbol of oppression against Muslims.
The two reports titling ‘If you speak up, your house will be demolished’: Bulldozer Injustice in India’ and ‘Unearthing Accountability: JCB’s Role and Responsibility in Bulldozer Injustice in India’ recorded the demolition of Muslim properties in at least five different states ruled by the extremist BJP government and Hindus in majority.
The reports said the JCB-branded bulldozers or diggers as brand of choice have been used in a hate campaign against the Muslims.
Amnesty International has analyzed the demolitions of 128 properties in the states of Assam, Delhi, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh after the episodes of communal violence and protests between April and June 2022.
According to the reports the demolitions were provoked by senior political leaders and government officials and impacted at least 617 people. Almost two years later, Muslim families and business owners in the five states await compensation for losing their businesses, homes, and places of worship.
Amnesty International in the reports said India’s widespread unlawful demolitions of Muslim properties through the use of JCB bulldozers and other machines must stop immediately.
Targeted demolition a systematic campaign against minority
Across several Indian states, JCB bulldozers have been deployed for the targeted demolition of properties owned by Muslim communities. These demolitions are not random acts; they are part of a systematic campaign against the minority community.
The distinctive yellow-and-black JCB bulldozers have become a symbol of injustice and fear for affected communities. Families wake up to the sound of engines revving, knowing that their homes are at risk of being reduced to rubble.
Imagine waking up one morning to find your home, where generations have lived, reduced to debris. Families are left homeless, their lives upended, and their memories shattered.
These demolitions not only destroy homes but also disrupt livelihoods. Small businesses run from these homes collapse, leaving families without income sources.
The trauma inflicted on families is immeasurable. Children witness their homes being torn down, and adults grapple with the loss of security and stability.
Remnant of medieval Barbaric tactics being employed in 21st century to spread awe in minorities and used it fear as a tool for conversion.
India not relenting from its discourse of decimating minorities especially Muslims to turn India into a Hindu Rashtriya not caring about the human tragedy.
JCB bulldozers, agents of injustice
The JCB bulldozers, once symbols of progress, have become agents of injustice. The report underscores the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights in business practices.
In response to the Amnesty International’s reports revealing the targeted demolition of Muslim homes in India, the global community must vehemently condemn the flagrant violation of human rights and the misuse of JCB bulldozers for oppression.
The international bodies must apply diplomatic and economic pressure on India to cease these destructive practices immediately.
