With the verdict of a Constitutional Bench allowing the entry of women of all ages into Sabarimala yet to be implemented, in the face of protests from angry mobs, a group of citizens, unaffiliated to any political party, are coming forward to make heard the voices of those who stand by the Constitution.
On November 13, thousands of people will gather at the Central Stadium in the city under the banner of ‘We, the people’, as a show of strength of those who stand for Constitutional values.
“If you look at what is happening in Kerala today, one would get the impression that the majority is against the Constitution and believes in misogyny. The violence, perpetrated by a small minority, has spilled out into all spheres and has now reached intolerable limits.
They assume that anything can now be done here in the name of religion. But, a majority clearly does not agree with this kind of violence and abuse against women. We aim to make those voices of the silent majority heard,” says Ajithkumar, a citizen who is part of the movement.
Idea
The idea evolved out of discussions among concerned citizens over the past few weeks.
They then got in touch with like-minded people across the State, who all expressed interest in coming together for protecting Constitutional values.
The group will organise several events in front of the Secretariat in the days leading up to the main event.
On Thursday, a group of artists will gather in front of the Secretariat, expressing their ideas on canvas.
A relay musical event, where anyone can sing, will also begin on Thursday and is expected to continue till the day of the main event.
Impromptu events
At 10.30 a.m. on November 13, thousands will gather at the Central Stadium and read out the preamble of the Constitution.
Magenta has been chosen as the colour code of the event, as it is “one of the few colours that is not associated with any political party.”
Thousands of magenta balloons will be released from the stadium. The events of the day, which will go on till 5 p.m., are not structured, with cultural programmes, seminars and impromptu events being part of the mix.
Support
Writers, artists, scientists and common people have come forward already expressing their support through selfie videos and Facebook badges.
“We now know that there is no possibility of theoretical engagement with the mob that is opposing Constitutional values. Now is the time to come together and show our strength. As citizens, it is our duty to uphold these values,” says Mr. Ajithkumar.