AICU Karnataka Condemns Police Crackdown on Peaceful Student Protesters; Urges Democratic Dialogue
Mangaluru: The Karnataka State unit of the All India Catholic Union (AICU) has strongly condemned the alleged police crackdown on students who were peacefully participating in the ‘Sansad March’ in New Delhi.
In a statement, Alwyn D’Souza, President of AICU Karnataka State, denounced the reported lathi-charge and use of tear gas against the protesting students, describing the action as a brutal assault on democratic values. He urged the Central Government to resolve all issues through dialogue and democratic means rather than the use of force.
“Youth and students, who represent the future of this country, have raised their voices peacefully to demand essential reforms in the education system. Responding to their democratic protest with excessive force is a serious attack on the very spirit of democracy,” he said.
Expressing solidarity with the students, D’Souza stated that AICU Karnataka stands firmly with all those who have been subjected to the alleged police action.
“We share your pain. We hear your voices. We fully support your legitimate demand for a transparent and just education system,” he said.
The organisation also expressed its unwavering support for social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has reportedly been on a prolonged hunger strike seeking educational reforms. Referring to reports that he was forcibly admitted to Safdarjung Hospital, AICU Karnataka voiced concern over his health and urged the authorities to address his legitimate demands with empathy, understanding, and dialogue rather than coercive measures.
Calling upon the government to uphold and protect the fundamental rights of all citizens, D’Souza appealed for the immediate initiation of meaningful discussions with the students and other stakeholders to resolve the issues through democratic processes.
