Mob violence has become a pressing law and order concern in India, reflecting a disturbing trend that poses significant challenges to the nation’s social fabric. Instances of mob violence have escalated in various parts of the country, leading to a plethora of consequences that undermine the principles of justice and harmony. One noteworthy example is the lynching incidents sparked by rumors of child abduction circulating on social media platforms, resulting in the tragic loss of innocent lives. The causes of mob violence in India are multifaceted, often rooted in factors such as socio-economic disparities, religious tensions, and the rapid dissemination of unverified information through digital channels. The consequences of such violence extend beyond the immediate harm inflicted, encompassing a broader erosion of trust in institutions, communal disharmony, and a tarnished image of the country on the global stage. This essay delves into the underlying causes of mob violence, shedding light on the complex interplay of social, economic, and cultural factors, and subsequently explores the far-reaching consequences that demand urgent attention and comprehensive strategies for mitigation.
Decoding the Question
Introduction: In Introduction write definition of mob violence
Body:
- In first part of the answer discuss causes of mob violence
- In second part of the answer discuss consequences of increasing mob violence
Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a writing solution.
Answer:
Over the past few years, there have been increasing incidents of loss of life and property due to mob violence – whether it be in Jharkhand over rumors of child kidnapping, in UP and Rajasthan by cow vigilantes, in Kashmir by violent crowds or over reservation by Jats in Haryana. Mob violence can be seen as a reflection of the displacement of responsibility by the state, which blames people for taking law into their own hands, and by citizens, who justify their actions on state inaction.
Causes for increasing mob violence:
- Social Media: Motivated rumours spread through social media which act as an anonymous force multiplier. Ideology based and targeted approach against a community, fake news, morphed or tailored videos etc. lead to mob violence.
- Extremist Ideology: Mob violence, including looting, typically ignites with little planning. Many who join are young, attracted towards instant gratification with brute power.
- The climate of Impunity: Support from political parties or similar ideological organizations and groups follow an extremist ideology and try to adopt extremist practices.
- Lack of Faith in Law and Order: Inadequate response to societal disorder, rising moral policing, and low deterrence of law and order. These are some of the most important factors which are responsible for rising mob violence.
- Silence from society: The harmony in society is decreasing and collective effort to do right is suppressed with a group-think and this is the reason why societal bond is breaking.
Consequences of Increasing Mob Violence:
- There is a deficit of justice when incidents of lynching across states happen, without those responsible being held accountable.
- There is a perversion of democracy, which confers upon the people an absolute monopoly on violence.
- Mob Violence threatens the very existence of dignified and meaningful existence in India enshrined in one of the Fundamental rights i.e. “Right to Life” (Art 21).
Therefore, there is a need for comprehensive police reforms and an efficient criminal justice delivery system which acts as a deterrence to people from resorting to mob violence in the name of justice. It is high time for the parliament to discuss, deliberate, draft and pass a special law addressing the issue of mob violence. Unity in diversity can only be protected by establishing rule of law and regaining people’s confidence in the justice system.
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