SJC pledges support for victims of torture

The victims of torture often go unnoticed and are often unheard because of lack of awareness about the issue in society. In an attempt to bring about awareness about the issue in College, the Centre for Social Concern (CSC), National Service Scheme (NSS) and Christian Students Association (CSA) organised a mime and a documentary screening in campus on Friday, June 24.

Azar Khan, President of CSC, pointed out that the events were being organised in order to observe the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. He said, "Many people do not know what torture actually is. Torture can be physical, emotional and even psychological in nature. It is our aim to put this across to students through mime and documentary."

He further added that a rally would be carried out from College to Town Hall on Saturday, demanding the ratification of the UN convention of torture by India and also urging the government to follow the D.K Basu guidelines on arrest, interrogation and detention.

Explaining the role of the NSS in conducting such programmes, J S Gladson, President of NSS, said, "It is very important to bring about awareness among youngsters. We have the power to make a difference and this is one such opportunity."

Students eagerly watched as performers showed different aspects of torture. Kiran Kumar Sen, from I CEZ, emphasised on the oppression women faced in the country. He said, "India is a male dominated society and women are victims of a lot of torture. This was aptly shown by the mime. The youth should take up responsibility against such crime."

- Jame Lobo, II M S Com