The two diametrically opposite reports on the post Godhra violence in Gujarat is another case in point. Justice Nanavati has totally exonerated Narendra Modi, who presided over the government when 2,500 people were killed in what has been come to be described as a pogrom and the government either did nothing or failed miserably to protect the people. The UC Bannerji Commission constituted by Lalu Yadav held that the fire in the Sabarmati Express which killed 56 karsevaks was a mere accident.
It is incredulous that two judges, who are legally trained, should come to completely opposing conclusions, having examined the same evidence. If this goes on, we can write a finis to the commissions of inquiry as a credible vehicle for establishing facts.
After the demolition of Babri Masjid, the Muslims were angry and aggressive. Today they feel vulnerable and there is an underlying fear of what is to come. Many apprehend state oppression. Anybody, they fear, can be picked up, interrogated, killed. And fear often fuels further violence.
Image: A file photo shows a cop standing besides the burnt train coach at Godhra Railway Station.
Photographs: Sebastian D'souza/AFP/Getty Images
Also read: 'Terror was there during Ram Rajya also'
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