New Delhi: A Facebook post by a filmmaker against the lynching of a Muslim teenager has spawned a powerful online campaign, leading to protest marches being planned in five cities, including Bengaluru.
Thousands have pledged to hit the streets this week in support of the campaign, "Not In My Name". The protests will also be held in Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Thiruvananthapuram simultaneously on June 28, the filmmaker, Saba Dewan, said, adding that it reflected the "anger and grief" of the people.
“I never realised the response would be so overwhelming. Despite the debilitating violence, these protests will make us feel we are alive and spark hope," Dewan said.
The campaign sought to "reclaim the Constitution" and "resist the onslaught" on the right to life and equality, the Gurgaon-based documentary filmmaker said.
An image designed by graphic artist Orijit Sen featuring blood-stained chappals, a metal rod and the message "Not In My Name" is being shared by hundreds on social media sites along with an appeal to join the protest. "Please carry banners with the slogan - NOT IN MY NAME. This is a citizens' protest open to all. Everyone is welcome but without party or organisational banners," the invite reads.
