In a statement issued on October 3, 2024, AISA condemned the unilateral suspension of 13 students at the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). These students are among those who dared to demand justice for the IIT-BHU gang-rape survivor. This is nothing, but an attempt to crush dissent and silence those who raised their voice for gender justice. The perpetrators, linked with the BJP, are roaming free and campaigning for their party, whereas those who protested for women’s safety are being shamefully castigated by the BHU administration.
Comrade Nilasis Bose, National President, said that from Unnao, Kathua, Hathras rape incidents, and Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh being shielded, or women workers fighting for safe work places, rape culture is being cultivated with impunity under the Modi-led BJP regime. We also saw how the BJP-led Gujarat Government released 11 convicted of gang-rape of Bilkis Bano during the 2002 riots on the eve of Independence Day in 2022, and the likes of Asaram Bapu and Ram Rahim, who are convicted of sexual crimes, being released on parole to suit the requirements of elections, and allowing unhindered state and militarised violence in Manipur that has resulted in women being raped, the BJP has been complicit in protecting perpetrators of sexual violence. BHU administration is no different, and hence our battle against the systemic Brahminical patriarchy, which has allowed rape culture to thrive must be waged.
Comrade Prasenjeet Kumar, National General Secretary said that whether it is RG Kar Medical College or BHU, students will unite to fight against sexual violence and state repression. Our commitment towards equality, dignity and justice shall continue.
