Lucknow, Read: This year, on the occasion of Vijayadashami (Dussehra), along with the effigies of traditional evils i.e. Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran, the effigy of a unique and talked about 'cockroach' has created a stir from political circles to social media. From Delhi to various districts of Uttar Pradesh, there have been sharp reactions, protests and administrative reshuffle regarding this fourth effigy. Let us know what is the whole controversy of this 'Cockroach' effigy and its ground reality:
1. Kanpur: Anger came out on the road, cockroach-shaped effigy was burnt
On the eve of Dussehra, the anger of youth was seen on the streets in Kanpur. A large number of youth and local workers gathered near Gopala Tower located in Kakadev area. Here a unique demonstration was organized in protest against CJP (Cockroach Janata Party) and its related statements. The protesters expressed deep displeasure over the alleged objectionable comments and use of language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The youth placed a cockroach-shaped effigy at the intersection, set it on fire and raised slogans. The protesters clearly said that indecent language and anti-national behavior in the name of political protest will not be tolerated at all.
Youth burning cockroach effigy in Kanpur
2. Muzaffarnagar: The name of the effigy had to be changed after police intervention.
This time, full preparations were made to burn a 15 to 30 feet high 'cockroach' effigy along with Ravana, Kumbhkaran and Meghnath at the famous exhibition ground of Muzaffarnagar. When pictures of this fourth effigy being built under the banner of Shri Ram Seva Dal went viral on social media, the local administration swung into action.
This time, complete preparations are being made to burn a 15 to 30 feet high 'cockroach' effigy along with Ravana, Kumbhkaran and Meghnath in the famous exhibition ground of Muzaffarnagar.
After the matter escalated and the police-administration instructed not to give it a political colour, the organizers took precaution and removed the name 'Cockroach' from the effigy in the night itself and changed its name to 'Corruption'. The organizers argued that their objective was to send a message against the evils and instability prevalent in the society, and not to stir up any controversy.
3. Saharanpur: Stirring protests and effigy burning
There was intense political activity regarding this environment in Saharanpur district of western Uttar Pradesh also. Here a plan was made by various organizations to hold a vigorous demonstration and burn effigies against the leaders associated with CJP and the alleged controversial issues. Workers took out a march in Haqiqatnagar Ramlila Maidan and Collectorate area and registered their protest, due to which this Dussehra festival has come into the center of discussion at the local level.
4. Delhi: Issue raised in the name of cleanliness
This time, Shri Keshav Ramlila Samiti, located in Pitampura, capital Delhi, has prepared a 30 feet high 'cockroach' effigy along with Ravana Dahan. However, the organizers of Delhi officially argue that this effigy is not in protest against any political party or individual, but is a symbol of awareness about the filth and cleanliness spread in the society. Organizers say that just like cleaning is done when cockroaches are seen in the house, similarly this is a symbolic message to clean the filth of the society.
Traditionally Dussehra has been the festival of victory of good over evil, but this time the symbolic effigies of 'cockroach' have brought this festival to the forefront of a new political and social struggle. While on one hand it is being linked to the shortcomings of cleanliness and order, on the other hand the phase of sharp political protests and demonstrations continues at the grassroots level.
Also read: History at Red Fort: Yami Gautam killed Ravana, women power shown in Ramlila