RSS condemns cow protection vigilantism at ‘Sant Sammelan’ in Una

Over 70 Hindu spiritual leaders, including Swami Parmatmanandji Maharaj, on Wednesday condemned last month’s flogging of Dalit youths in Una by a cow vigilante group, a state RSS functionary said.

Over 70 Hindu spiritual leaders, including Swami Parmatmanandji Maharaj, on Wednesday condemned last month’s flogging of Dalit youths in Una by a cow vigilante group, a state RSS functionary said.

People of the Dalit community hold a protest rally against the thrashing of four youths by cow protection vigilantes in Una. (PTI File Photo)

The leaders had gathered at Una in Gir Somnath district to attend a meet organised by Samajik Samrasta Manch, an RSS outfit.

“Our aim was to spread the message of peace, harmony and unity. RSS strongly condemns the atrocities on Dalits and we want everyone to come forward to protest such heinous acts. Several local Dalit leaders were also present,” state RSS spokesperson Vijay Thaker said.

Four Dalit youths were flogged at Mota Samadhiyala village of Una tehsil last month for allegedly killing the cow which they were skinning. It led to state-wide protests and caused outrage across the country.

“Gujarat prant sanghchalak Mukesh Malkan and Swami Parmatmanandji went to the village and met the family before attending the Sammelan,” said Thaker.

The religious leaders passed a resolution at the gathering condemning the incident.

“Religious leaders registered a strong protest against such hooliganism of Gau Rakshaks. They also asked government to take stringent steps against such elements who are tormenting innocent people in the name of protection of cow,” said Thaker.