A powerful silent protest marched through the streets of Hubballi on Monday, as members of Dalit organisations and seers from various mutts united to condemn the brutal honour killing of Manya Patil in Inam Veerapur village. The demonstrators demanded swift justice and societal reform to end such violence.
A Silent March for Justice
The protestors gathered with a solemn resolve, wearing black bands on their hands and carrying placards that denounced the murder. The march began at the Siddharoodha Math and proceeded to the Dr BR Ambedkar Circle. Hundreds of leaders and members from various social organisations participated in this show of solidarity, turning the event into a significant public outcry against caste-based violence.
Leaders Unite in Condemnation
At Ambedkar Circle, the gathering transformed into a meeting where community leaders voiced their anger and demands. A petition was formally submitted to the staff at the tahsildar's office, urging immediate legal action. The speakers were unanimous in their call for the perpetrators to be held accountable.
Prominent figures who addressed the crowd included:
- Basavananda Swamiji of Rudrakshi Math
- Shadakshari Swamiji of Adijambava Math in Hiriyur
- Former MLA Veerabhadrappa Halaharavi
- Siddheshwar Swamiji of Koppal
- Leader Vijaya Guntral
Community leaders from Vijayapura, Yadgir, and Gadag districts also joined the protest march, highlighting the widespread concern across the region.
A Call for Education and Cultural Change
The speeches went beyond demanding punishment, focusing on the need for deep-rooted societal change. Basavananda Swamiji of Rudrakshi Math emphasised that "All communities must condemn the murder unanimously." He further opined that such heinous acts would only cease with widespread education and cultural evolution, stating, "Such acts will stop only when people are educated and cultured."
The protest in Hubballi stands as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against honour killings and caste-based violence. It underscores a growing demand from civil society for the law to act decisively and for communities to introspect and eradicate regressive practices through unity and enlightenment.
