Gyaneshwari Express Sabotage - I

The derailment of the Gyaneshwari E xpress on 28 May, either due to sabotage or e xplosion as per media reports, in which, as reported, more than 150 people have already lost their lives, is highly reprehensible and completely indefensible. The People’s Union for Democratic Rights (PUDR) strongly condemns whichever o rganisation is responsible for the carnage as we believe that no political cause or m otive can justify an act of this nature.

As is evident from the contradictory statements coming from ministers and government functionaries, the facts of the case are still far from clear. PUDR demands that a high level and impartial inquiry be instituted into the incident so that the truth can be uncovered, responsibility fixed beyond all possible doubt and the guilty brought to book. Till such time this happens PUDR appeals to all sections of society to refrain from making or fuelling unfounded allegations which can only end in futile mud-slinging matches or in witchhunts. Such rumour-mongering and false conclusions on the part of governments, political parties and the administration (aided by sections of the media) not only denies justice to those affected by the tragedy, but also fails to address issues of safety and welfare of citizens for the future.