It is five years to date, since Fr Stan Swamy, was arrested and more than four years since he was martyred for the cause of justice. The incontrovertible fact is that, though Fr Stan is no longer physically present on this earth, he continues to live in the hearts and lives of many everywhere, very particularly the poor and the marginalised, the excluded and the exploited, the Adivasis and the Dalits, anyone and everyone who are victims of injustice and inhumanity. Besides civil society members: academics and activists, civil libertarians and politicians, Jesuits, and other religious and priests, continue to miss him profoundly and still mourn his death. Despite the all-out hostility of the NIA, painstaking efforts continue on several fronts, to prove the innocence of Fr Stan (and he was innocent) and that his incarceration was unwarranted, illegal and unconstitutional.

Though Fr Stan’s death left a void in the heart of many, he did leave behind a rich legacy, which today many of those he inspired, are grappling with ways and means of how best they can internalise and actualise it. It is not easy to so, it is indeed a challenge. Fr Stan’s legacy embodies Compassion, Courage, Collaboration and Commitment. Certainly a tall order – but given the reality, we live in today, it is a path, we have no option, but to follow. In an effort to live and deepen this legacy, eighteen Jesuits of the South Asian Assitancy met for a two-day (5 &6 October, 2025) reflection at Bagaicha, Ranchi. The meeting which was organised and hosted by the Jesuit team of Bagaicha, was path-breaking on several counts: the participants shared with each other their profound experiences of living, working with Fr Stan and of being inspired by him; of the many good things (events, programmes, memorial meets) that have been taking place after his death; and of the ‘much more’ that needs to be done, if we are to genuinely live the legacy Fr Stan left us.

During the reflection, the Jesuits re-visited some key documents which included the vision and mission of Bagaicha, the Community Meetings held there, the JCSA National Consultation held in Delhi in September 2021, the subsequent meetings of the Central Zone Jesuits. These documents enunciated a clear way of proceeding with concrete points of action, in order to realise the legacy of Fr Stan. In the National Consultation of Delhi for one, the participants (Jesuits and collaborators) unanimously formulated an incisive statement, ‘Reliving the Stan Moment: A Clarion Call’. The statement had a doable action plan in order to keep alive the legacy which Stan has left us!

The recently held Bagaicha reflection in more ways than one synced with the National Consultation statement which said, “during the time together, we listened to touching insights of those who knew Fr Stan well, of how he walked the talk and of how ultimately, he had to pay the price for the people and their cause -for which he lived. We also shared in-depth spiritual conversations with one another. We emphasized the incarnational spirituality which Fr Stan internalised and actualised, as he accompanied the Adivasis, the Dalits and other sub-alterns in their relentless struggle for a more humane, just, dignified, equitable and peaceful world. He willingly embraced the Cross that was given to him.”

The key question in the very meaningful, profound and interactive process was, “are we doing enough (individually and collectively) to internalise and live Stan’s legacy today”? The answer was a unanimous, honest and heartfelt “NO!” Whilst everyone did acknowledge the plenty of good being done all over (which they felt were important and necessary), there was also the feeling, that one should transcend mere ‘cosmeticisation’ or ‘tokenism.’ What one also needs to deal with, is the fear factor that throttles both the individual and collective and prevents one from being visible and vocal where critical issues are concerned. The Jesuits also felt strongly that there must be a paradigm shift in attitudes, approaches and actions, if one truly wishes to live Fr Stan’s legacy. Indicators for this include emphasis on movement rather than on institutions, to be in the midst of the people, to accompany them in their struggles, to collaborate with like-minded individuals and groups, to engage in research based advocacy and to be courageous enough to take visible prophetic stands against the powerful and other vested interest. Fr Stan’s legacy, which is essentially the faith-justice mandate of the Society of Jesus, needs to permeate in all Jesuit ministries and initiatives today, beginning with formation.

Just before he left Bagaicha and his arrest in October 2020, Fr. Stan said, “over the last two decades, I have identified myself with the Adivasi people and their struggle for a life of dignity and self-respect… In this process, I have clearly expressed my dissent over several policies and laws enacted by the government in the light of the Indian Constitution. I have questioned the validity, legality and justness of several steps taken by the government and the ruling class. If this makes me a ‘deshdrohi’, then so be it. We are part of the process. In a way I am happy to be part of this process. I am not a silent spectator, but part of the game and ready to pay the price whatever be it…. I/we must be ready to face the consequences. I would just add that what is happening to me is not unique. Many activists, lawyers, writers, journalists, student leaders, poets, intellectuals and others who stand for the rights of Adivasis, Dalits and the marginalised and express their dissent to the ruling powers of the country are being targeted. Grateful to all who have stood in solidarity with me all these years.”

Fr. Stan today challenges us all, Jesuits and others to live the legacy he has left us, in a profound way by our presence among the people, by our participation in their struggles and joys, by partnering through a shared vision and mission, with other women and men of good will, by having the courage to play a prophetic role and above all, to be a pilgrim a hope. From Taloja jail he wrote, “my needs are limited. The Adivasis and the Society of Jesus, have taught me to lead a simple life… Listening to the life narratives of the poor prisoners is my joy in Taloja Jail… I see God in their pains and smiles… Many of such poor undertrials don’t know what charges have been put on them, have not seen their chargesheet and just remain for years without any legal or other assistance. The 16 co-accused have not been able to meet each other as we are lodged in different jails or different ‘circles’ with the same jail”; he concludes, “but we will still sing in chorus. A caged bird can still sing”.

The Bagaicha reflection has energised the Jesuit participants, to do all they can, to live Fr Stan Swamy’s legacy in an uncompromising and prophetic way, and not to be afraid whatever the consequences one may have to face!

Fr Cedric Prakash SJ is a human rights, reconciliation and peace activist/writer.

The post On living the legacy of Fr. Stan Swamy appeared first on SabrangIndia.

I write this to you with a heavy heart: shocked and saddened; upset and angry. This letter to you, is perhaps to ease the angst in me; I really don’t know what to say and how to say it! But I am sure that what I write, is also the sentiments, the emotions of many, from all over: Jesuit companions, colleagues, collaborators, alumni well-wishers and friends who knew you so well and particularly, the Adivasis and other sub-alterns,whom you loved so much and gave your life for. This letter comes from the bottom of my heart (and our hearts) to say “Sorry, Stan!”

On August 9, St Xavier’s College(SXC) Mumbai, (through their Department of Inter-Religious Studies) was scheduled to hold ‘The Annual Stan Swamy Memorial Lecture’. The topic was ‘Migration for Livelihood: Hope Amidst Untold Miseries’.It was to be delivered virtually by Jesuit Fr. Prem Xalxo, currently Associate Professor of Moral Theology at the Gregorian University, Rome. The speaker was a renowned personality and the topic timely and relevant. On August 4, representatives of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad(ABVP) met the SXC authorities, and in a written letter ‘strongly condemned’ the organising of the lecture and demanded its cancellation. Very sadly, the Jesuit management and other officials caved in to this pressure and cancelled the lecture. For this, “Sorry, Stan!”

In their letter ( which they have put on their facebook page)the ABVP said “organising a lecture in memory of a person who was a key accused in serious crimes, like UAPA, including contact with the banned CPI (Maoist), financing and recruiting armed Naxalite groups, and seizure of documents containing a conspiracy to overthrow the constitutional government through armed uprising, is glorifying the Naxalites…“it is extremely sad that prestigious colleges like St. Xavier’s are trying to encourage Naxalist ideas by glorifying a person accused of committing anti-national conspiracies. We demand that the principal cancel this lecture immediately.” All this is patently false and it has been proved that even the so-called ‘incriminating documents’ were planted in your computer. Besides for an ‘alleged’ crime, the law stipulates that one is innocent, till proved guilty. That you are innocent is without doubt.  Judge after judge have rescuedthemselves from your case, for the simple reason, is that theywill have to declare you innocent! For the falsehood and slander you are still subject to, “Sorry, Stan!”

Stan, you are aware that SXC is my Alma Mater. I spent cherished years as a Xavierite from 1968 – 1972 (1969 was our Centenary year). At that time, we had Jesuits who were stalwarts, Staff who were excellent and a great student body! It was a joy to be a Xavierite. It was at that time I first met youin a Social Analysis Programme – and ever since, you have been to me a hero, mentor and guide. In 1974, (and later), after entering the Society, together with my companions, wereadily accepted the faith – justice mandate under the leadership of Fr Pedro Arrupe. Over the years, I learnt that you heroes were Dom Helder Camara, Paolo Friere, Ivan Illich and Arrupe. Your knowledge on their writings and works, rubbed off on many. As a good friend of yours, as an SXC alumnus and as Jesuit, feel duty bound to say, “Sorry, Stan!”

Ever since the news broke out of the cancellation of the Memorial lecture, I have been literally besieged with calls and comments; in the many groups, I belong to, on social media, there are innumerable comments against the Jesuits, and particularly against SXC (some of the comments are even offensive) From across the board, people (including several alumni and Jesuits) are feeling angry and let down. They say that SXC has failed to see the big picture: cancelling the lecture means giving in to the anti-national and anti-Constitutional fascist forces.; acquiescing with these forces means that they are emboldened and will continue to call the shots.

 It means negating the academic freedom which is the essence of every institution of higher learning; it means that the Constitutional guarantee of freedom of speech and expression is not important. In the past, when there were such threats, we are aware that, SXC called in the police and continued with their programme.

Today’s (10 August) Mid-day reports, “We are surprised that the college has shown cowardice and yielded to pressure tactics. We teach our students about the values of justice, democracy, and peace, but when it comes to taking a stand, we bow down to the pressure, even when Stan has not been proven guilty. This has been the general pulse of the St Xavier’s alumni and the community,” said a source from the St Xavier’s College Society. “Sorry, Stan!”

On July 1, our Superior General Fr Arturo Sosa, delivered a path-breaking inaugural address to the Assembly of International Association of Jesuit Universities (IAJU) gathered in Colombia. Among the many other things, he said, “At the 2018 IAJU Assembly in Bilbao, I also recalled how Ignacio Ellacuría, S.J., one of the martyrs of the UCA-El Salvador, strongly insisted on understanding the university as a project of social transformation. Trying to explain the meaning of those words, I said: “It is a university that moves toward the margins of human history where it encounters those who are discarded by the dominant structures and powers. It is a university that opens its doors and windows to the margins of society. With them comes a new breath of life that makes efforts for social transformation a source of life and fulfilment.””. That the Jesuits of SXC have not understood this fundamental of Jesuit education, we say “Sorry, Stan!”

Today on Facebook I came across a powerful picture and quote posted by ‘Earth. We Are One’.( ewao.com) we are one. The picture shows birds in a cage criticising the bird who dares fly. The quote said, “The image of caged birds criticising a rebel who has chosen to fly free is a powerful metaphor for the way society often views those who dare to challenge the status quo. The caged birds represent the fear and conformity of those who prefer to remain inside their safe boundaries, while the free bird embodies the courage to break away from societal norms. What is it that makes us fear the rebel—the one who chooses to question the rules? Perhaps it’s because they see a different path, one that holds the potential for growth and freedom. This cartoon asks us: Is it better to stay in the cage, or should we follow our own path toward true liberation?”  That reminded me of you Stan, someone who had the courage to fly and even when you were caged in prison, you dared to tell us that even caged birds sing. Of course you meant the song of truth and justice. For not having the courage to fly and even to sing whilst being caged, we say with humility “Sorry, Stan!”

I can see you Stan, smiling at us here below, telling us in your own inimitable and no-nonsense way of how we have lost the plot! You tell us that instead of accompanying the Adivasis and the Dalits, the excluded and exploited, the minorities and marginalised, the poor and vulnerable, we focus on constructing buildings and on institutionalisation. You question us about ‘forming men and women for others’ when some of those who take away the jal-jungle-jameen other natural resources, identity and dignity fromthe Adivasis, are those ‘educated’ by us. You remind us of the film ‘Mission’ and of the Jesuit Martyrs of El Salvador; you challenge us to live our faith-justice mandate and to realise the Universal Apostolic Preferences (UAPs) in all our initiatives. Above all, you tell us that mere ‘tokenism’ and ‘cosmetic activities’ will in no way help us truly walk the talk! Yes, Stan, we have betrayed you, your vision and mission. Perhaps, this act by SXC, may evenhopefully help us all to ‘examen’ ourselves much more and honestly! Till then “Sorry, Stan!”

Forgive us, dear Stan, and intercede for us from your eternal abode,

Your brother,

Cedric

The author is a human rights, reconciliation & peace activist /writer

Related:

Fr. Stan Swamy SJ: Person, Pilgrim, Prophet

Fr. Stan Swamy’s legacy lives forever!

Jailed Father Stan Swamy dies ahead of his bail hearing

Fr Stan Swamy’s institutional murder

The post Sorry, Stan! appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Today, four years after he physically left this earth, what does Stan Swamy mean to the legion of his admirers, his followers, those who were inspired by him and particularly, those for whom he gave his life for…He meant and continues to mean different things, to different sections of society. Stan epitomised human values at their best and radiated them in his non-negotiable commitment for a more just, equitable, fraternal and humane world!

One needs to take a cue from Stan Swamy’s words just before his arrest on October 8, 2020. In a video-message which went viral he said, “over the last two decades, I have identified myself with the Adivasi people and their struggle for a life of dignity and self-respect… In this process, I have clearly expressed my dissent over several policies and laws enacted by the government in the light of the Indian Constitution. I have questioned the validity, legality and justness of several steps taken by the government and the ruling class. If this makes me a ‘deshdrohi’, then so be it. We are part of the process. In a way I am happy to be part of this process. I am not a silent spectator, but part of the game and ready to pay the price whatever be it…. I/we must be ready to face the consequences. I would just add that what is happening to me is not unique. Many activists, lawyers, writers, journalists, student leaders, poets, intellectuals and others who stand for the rights of Adivasis, Dalits and the marginalised and express their dissent to the ruling powers of the country, are being targeted. Grateful to all who have stood in solidarity with me all these years.”

These words give us a very powerful insight into Stan Swamy – the Person, the Pilgrim, the Prophet

Stan, the Person:

One would need to write volumes on Stan the person. He was a human par excellence! All through his life he radiated compassion and concern for the other! He was selfless to the core! His focus was always ‘his people’; an approach which was people-centric: a much-needed value in today’s world! He lived among the people – the poor, the Adivasis. He ate their food, sang their songs and danced with them. His life was extremely simple, to the point of frugality! He lived his vow of poverty to the fullest and in a most edifying manner; his material needs were few; his actual possessions were even less. The media had a field day, when the ‘authorities’ came to ‘seize’ his possessions from his room in Bagaicha where he lived till his arrest! They got almost nothing- which of course, made them a pathetic laughing stock! In his early days, Stan was a trainer, mentor, guide – inspiring hundreds of youth and others through social awareness programmes and to critically analyse what was happening in society; there are many today, from across the board, who are and will always be grateful for the profound impact he left on their lives. Several of them today have a social concern only because they were inspired by him. For Stan, his heroes and motivators were the likes of Paolo Freire, Dom Helder Camara and Fr Pedro Arrupe. He read profusely and also wrote a lot.  Vatican II and the faith -justice mandate which emerged from the 32^nd General Congregation of the Jesuits, greatly shaped Stan’s way of proceeding: his thinking and his actions. Like Jesus his Master, he questioned and taught others to question, to be visible and vocal, to challenge all that is wrong and unjust in society and to respond constructively and positively to these issues. When he was imprisoned in Taloja jail, he wrote, “on the other hand, we sixteen co-accused (in the Bhima-Koregaon conspiracy case) have not been able to meet each other, as we are lodged in different jails or different ‘circles’ within the same jail but we will still sing in chorus, a caged bird can still sing.” Yes, Fr Stan Swamy was convinced that a caged bird could sing because he was a complete person who epitomised and radiated the best of human values! One rarely, sees such a person today!

Stan, the Pilgrim:

Pilgrims are those who walk, who walk with others, who walk the talk- they have a clear focus on their destination. They know where they are going and for what. Like St. Ignatius (the Founder of the Society of Jesus, Stan was a Jesuit)), he was a pilgrim in the true sense of the word. He believed in movements: people on the move, just like in the Biblical ‘Exodus’: the struggles of the ‘people of God’ for a more just, equitable, dignified and humane life.  He identified himself with and participated in peoples’ movements. Stan left no stone unturned to ensure the Kingdom of God on earth belonged to all (particularly the sub-alterns) and that all would be together around the table of fellowship. For him that ‘kingdom’ was ‘kinship’- the readiness (attitude and action) to serve others with love! ‘Fratelli Tutti’ (Brothers and Sisters All) as Pope Francis reminds us in his Encyclical. Like a true pilgrim, he lived a frugal life, unencumbered with baggage. His room in Bagaicha (now made into a Stan Memorial Museum), had the barest necessities; it bore witness to the life of a man on the move – a real pilgrim. Stan did all he could to empower the Adivasis. He accompanied them in their struggles and showed them the way to a better future! Stan’s life as a pilgrim should be a motivating factor today for all to get out of one’s comfort zones, institutionalised lifestyles and cosmetic band-aid approaches, which reek of tokenism and opportunism, and to be attune to the grim realities which the ordinary, poor people face today! In a world which is divided and fragmented Stan is a beacon: a pilgrim of hope! 

Stan, the Prophet:

A prophet whilst announcing the good news, must denounce all that is wrong, unjust and evil in society. One needs to take an unequivocal stand; to be visible and vocal. Stan, as an authentic disciple of Jesus, truly feared no one! He also shunned the hypocrites! He joined the Adivasis, the Dalits, other sub-alterns and civil society members, in the struggles against the violation of laws in acquiring land for mega projects for mining (coal mining is rampant in Jharkhand and in other tribal areas today) and infrastructural development which flout the rights of the downtrodden and tribals. He took a stand against the wanton destruction of the ‘jal, jungle, jameen’ of the Adivasis. He consistently raised his voice in democratic, legitimate ways against the state-sponsored violations of laws and the assault on the democratic rights of people, aimed at paving way for unrestricted exploitation of land and natural resources. He questioned the non-implementation of the 5th Schedule of the Constitution why the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act [PESA], was being ignored. He strongly expressed his disappointment at the silence of the Government on the landmark 1997 Samantha Judgment of the Supreme Court; he spoke out strongly against the half-hearted action of the Government on the ‘Forest Rights Act, 2006’. He expressed his apprehensions at the Amendment to ‘Land Acquisition Act 2013’ by the Jharkhand government which was a death-knell for the Adivasi Community. He strongly disagreed with the setting up of ‘Land Banks’ which he saw as a calculated plot to annihilate the Adivasis. Through the ‘Persecuted Prisoners’ Solidarity Committee’ he challenged the indiscriminate arrest of three thousand young Adivasis under the label of ‘naxals’ just because they questioned and resisted unjust land-alienation and displacement. Because of all this and more he made enemies- from among the powerful and vested interests; those who felt that he was a thorn in their flesh. He minced no words when he challenged his own, to stop over-institutionalisation, to stop catering to the privileged and elite sections of society (who have plenty of other possibilities and opportunities) and above all, to get out of the safety and security of one’s comfort zone! He was a visionary who took prophetic stands! He once said, “the Government calls me a ‘deshdrohi’ for defending the rights of the Adivasis. So be it!” Stan was a prophet of and for our times. He radiated an unparalleled prophetic courage and ultimately, like all genuine prophets, he too paid the ultimate, supreme price of being one!

There is a bust of Fr Stan Swamy in the garden of the Bagaicha, the Centre which he started in Ranchi. Etched on a marble stone just below this bust, are his incisive and immortal words, “why truth has become so bitter, dissent so intolerable, justice so out of reach… Yet truth must be spoken, right to dissent must be upheld and justice much reach the doorsteps of the poor. I am not a silent spectator!”  Stan Swamy was indeed a martyr for justice, a pilgrim of hope and a prophet for our times. As we pay tribute to and try to emulate Stan Swamy; the person, the pilgrim and prophet – the only way we can genuinely do so, is by not being silent spectators to the terrible realities, the crimes against humanity, which have engulfed our people and many of us, today!

(The author is a human rights, reconciliation and peace activist/writer; cedricprakash@gmail.com )

Related:

Fr. Stan Swamy’s legacy lives forever!

Jailed Father Stan Swamy dies ahead of his bail hearing

Fr Stan Swamy’s institutional murder

The post Fr. Stan Swamy SJ: Person, Pilgrim, Prophet appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Stan Swamy is a SYMBOL: He is a symbol of resistance! He is a symbol of hope! He is a symbol of a new dawn! He is a symbol that justice and truth, which will ultimately triumph, whatever the consequences or the price, one may temporarily have to pay! Stan Swamy is a sign-post, a non-negotiable direction for the country today, particularly for the sub-alterns, those who have nowhere to go, and those who live on the peripheries of society. Stan is a symbol of the relentless struggles of ordinary people belonging to all sections of society.  He is a symbol for the ostracised and the dehumanised, that all is not lost! That there is still hope and that change is inevitable.

Stan Swamy is a SERVANT: in the complete sense of the word! Someone who loved to serve others and he served with love!  Stan Swamy was a servant made in the image and likeness of his Master Jesus. At the Last Supper, Jesus, went down on his knees to wash the feet of his disciples. It was an unimaginable gesture at that time. The mandate of Jesus to his disciples was clear: “do this in memory of me!”; “love one another, as I have loved you!” Stan lived this mandate throughout his life in the service of others. He served others without counting the cost! He did so with humility and selflessness. He epitomised what is referred to, as ‘servant-leadership,’ today! Like Jesus, he knelt down and washed the feet of his people, he embraced them, he held their hands and walked the miles with them in their struggle for justice, liberty, equality, fraternity and dignity!

Stan Swamy is a SHEPHERD:  accompanying his people to greener pastures; being in their midst: in their ‘joy and hope, grief and anguish’. Stan Swamy lived in the villages of Adivasis, ate their food, and sang their songs, danced with them. He lived a simple, frugal life and his possessions were the meagre necessities. He was a compassionate pastor! A little after he assumed office, Pope Francis called on the world’s priests to stay close to the vulnerable, the marginalized and to be “shepherds living with the smell of the sheep.”  “This is what I am asking you,” he said with emphasis, looking up from his prepared text, “be shepherds with the smell of sheep.” In ‘Evangelii Gaudium’ Pope Francis issued the same call to all Christians, “Evangelisers thus take on the ‘smell of the sheep’ and the sheep are willing to hear their voice” Stan Swamy did exactly this: and his people heard his voice!

Stan Swamy is a SINGER: who always had a song to sing! Stan would surely smile hearing this!  A true singer, everyone knows, is much more than a song:  much more than the lyrics and the music. A singer is the soul, is the spirit that touches, that motivates, that inspires that leads. The singer is about attitude and conviction, about one’s body language: the song is from the heart!  A singer cannot be caged, can never be imprisoned. The song is immortal: the words will never die. From Taloja Jail, during his incarceration, Stan Swamy wrote, “my needs are limited. The Adivasis and the Society of Jesus, have taught me to lead a simple life… Listening to the life narratives of the poor prisoners is my joy in Taloja Jail… I see God in their pains and smiles… Many of such poor under trials don’t know what charges have been put on them, have not seen their charge sheet and just remain for years without any legal or other assistance. The 16 co-accused have not been able to meet each other as we are lodged in different jails or different ‘circles’ with the same jail”; he concludes, “But we will still sing in chorus. A caged bird can still sing.”

Stan Swamy is a SAINT:  there is no doubt about that! A saint is one who personifies holiness in the small simple, ordinary things of daily life. Pope Francis gave us an incisive Apostolic Exhortation in 2018, ‘Gaudete Et Exsultate’ (On the Call to Holiness in Today’s World). In it he emphasises that saints are not only those who have been beatified and canonised by the Catholic Church. Pope Francis states, “your identification with Christ and his will involves a commitment to build with him that kingdom of love, justice and universal peace. Christ himself wants to experience this with you, in all the efforts and sacrifices that it entails, but also in all the joy and enrichment it brings. You cannot grow in holiness without committing yourself, body and soul, to giving your best to this endeavour”. A description that fits Stan Swamy to the T! His companions in prison Vernon Gonsalves and Arun Ferreira will testify to this!  Stan Swamy was a living saint – the Adivasis believed in him! A few days after his death, in July 2021, hundreds gathered together at ‘Bagaicha’ near Ranchi, the Centre he had begun for the rights of the Adivasis. During the memorial ceremony, his name was etched on the stone that had the names of tribal leaders who gave their lives for the sake of their people! Yes, Stan Swamy is a martyr and a Saint! Many pray to him today!

Alpa Shah, who teaches at the London School of Economics, recently released her path-breaking book, ‘The Incarcerations: Bhima Koregaon and the Search for Democracy in India’. She writes, “In July 2018. Stan found himself accused of sedition by the Jharkhand government, alongside nineteen others. He wrote an email to his friends on 28 July 2018 in defence of his new status has a national traitor.  ‘FIRs have been made out. We are accused of supporting the self- rule movement taking place among Adivasis in Jharkhand and neighbouring states of central India. Pathalgadi (erection of stone slabs) listing the powers of gram sabha (village councils) as per PESA Act 1996 and declaring their right to self-governance. The state government is not able to digest this declaration and calls it “a war against the state” and all those who support it as desh drohi (a national traitor)! In an attachment to the email, Stan listed all the issues he had raised about the government and ruling class policy in the light of the Indian Constitution and concluded, ‘if this makes me a ‘desh drohi’, then so be it”!  

 That was and is the quintessential Stan Swamy and his indomitable spirit: Symbol, Servant, Shepherd, Singer and Saint – all rolled in one! That Spirit will never die!  We are ALL called to celebrate and emulate that Spirit today!

(Fr Cedric Prakash SJ is a human rights, reconciliation and peace activist/writer. Contact: cedricprakash@gmail.com )

The post Celebrating the Spirit of Stan Swamy appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Given the grim realities which throttle the nation today, one person whose physical presence is greatly missed today is that of Jesuit Father Stan Swamy. Two years ago on July 5, 2021, he said ‘good-bye’ to us, having completed his pilgrimage here on earth. He was arrested on 8 October 2020 on fabricated charges, incarcerated in the Taloja jail where he suffered very much. His terrible and untimely death is regarded by many as ‘institutional murder’. He has still not been declared ‘innocent’ by the courts. However, Stan (as he was called by all very lovingly) the man, mission and message -lives on in the hearts and lives of thousands everywhere. He has left us with a rich legacy and challenges us to live that legacy today.

In his early days, Stan was a trainer, mentor, guide – inspiring hundreds of youths and others through social awareness programmes and to critically analyse what was happening in society; there are many today from across the board, who are and will always be grateful for the profound impact he left on their lives. For Stan, his heroes and motivators were the likes of Paolo Freire, Dom Helder Camara and Fr Pedro Arrupe. Vatican II and the faith -justice mandate which emerged from the 32^nd General Congregation of the Jesuits, greatly shaped Stan’s way of proceeding: his thinking and his actions. Like Jesus his Master, he questioned and taught others to question and challenge all that is wrong and unjust in society and to respond constructively and positively to these issues.

Stan did all he could to empower the Adivasis. He accompanied and struggled alongside with them on issues related to the violation of laws in acquiring land for mega projects for mining and infrastructural development which flout the rights of the downtrodden and tribals. He consistently raised his voice in democratic, legitimate ways against the state-sponsored violations of laws and assault on democratic rights of people aimed at paving way for unrestricted exploitation of land and natural resources. He questioned the non-implementation of the 5th Schedule of the Constitution why the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act [PESA], was being ignored. He strongly expressed his disappointment at the silence of the Government on the 1997 Samatha Judgment of the Supreme Court; he was visible and vocal at the half-hearted action of the Government on Forest Rights Act, 2006. He expressed his apprehensions at the Amendment to ‘Land Acquisition Act 2013’ by the Jharkhand government which was a death-knell for the Adivasi Community. He strongly disagreed with the setting up of ‘Land Banks’ which he saw as a calculated plot to annihilate the Adivasis. He challenged the indiscriminate arrest of three thousand young Adivasis under the label of ‘naxals’ just because they questioned and resisted unjust land-alienation and displacement. And much, much more!

Stan walked the talk; he should be a motivating factor today for all to get out of our comfort zones, institutionalised lifestyles and cosmetic band-aid approaches to the grim realities which our people face today! Stan is physically no more but the other Bhima-Koregoan 15 (all human rights defenders) who have been vocal and visible in standing up for the rights of the poor, are still languishing in jail, some for five years now (though three are out on bail).  He has however, left behind a rich legacy which challenges us today; this legacy can be spelt out in five inter-related dimensions: Presence, Partnership, Participation, Prophetic and Pilgrim

Presence:

The essential thing that St Ignatius of Loyola teaches one in the Spiritual Exercises is to be in the presence of God. A presence which undoubtedly helps leads one towards a meaningful physical presence among the people of God. God and his people were ever present in Stan’s life.  Stan was always in the midst of his people; he pitched his tent among them: he sang and danced with them; he ate their meals and walked the miles with them. He lived for them and he died for them. Like a good shepherd he smelled of the sheep. His presence among the people was perhaps to a fault. He gave without counting the cost; he was never ensconced in a comfort zone. His life was totally people-centred. Till the very end he begged the Presiding judge to give him bail to go back to be with his people; he never lost focus of this fundamental.

Participation:

For meaningful communion and effective mission, one must participate in the sufferings and sorrows, the struggles and anxieties, the cries and yearnings of those who are denied their legitimate place in society. Stan was an authentic participant in the lives of the people. He was visible; he spoke loudly and strongly; he was articulate, he studied and analysed society and the plight of the poor; he wrote and gave interviews (his letters and poems from jail are a testimony to this). He stood with the Adivasis against the powerful and other vested interests who robbed them their ‘jal, jungle aur jameen’. He internalised and actualised the words of Pope Francis in ‘Evangelii Gaudium, “I prefer a Church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets, rather than a Church which is unhealthy from being confined and from clinging to its own security. I do not want a Church concerned with being at the centre and which then ends by being caught up in a web of obsessions and procedures”.  This was Stan’s mantra too and he had no hesitation in sharing it with others. 

Partnership:

Given the enormity and the complexity of the issues which challenge us, one cannot work alone or in our institutionalised silos. One needs to work with all women and men of goodwill for the establishment of a more just, equitable, free, fraternal and dignified society. Stan realised this throughout and for him his partners were the Adivasis and the Dalits, human rights defenders, lawyers and academics, animists, agnostics and atheists, from every gender and everyone else who would help realise the goals of the Constitution of India. He believed in collaboration and networking, an essential which the Society reaffirmed in the 35^th General Congregation; “We must in turn look to our collaborators in mission and say, with gratitude and affection, that the call we have received is a call shared by us together”. (D.6 #3) Yes, many of us welcome them into our institutions (we must continue to do so) but are we ready to join them – in their programmes, in their initiatives? Whom do we identify with? were Stan’s perennial questions! He journeyed with others in the relentless struggle for a more just and humane society.

Prophetic:

A prophet whilst announcing the good news, must denounce all that is wrong, unjust and evil in society. One needs to take a stand; to be visible and vocal. Stan, as true disciple of Jesus, truly feared no one! Because of this, he did have many enemies; those who felt that he was a thorn in their flesh. He minced no words when he challenged his own to stop over-institutionalisation, to stop catering to the privileged and elite sections of society (who have plenty of other possibilities and opportunities) and above all, to get out of the safety and security of one’s comfort zone! Stan was a prophet of and for our times. He radiated an unparalleled prophetic courage and ultimately, he had to pay the price for it!

Pilgrim:

Like St. Ignatius, Stan was a pilgrim in the true sense of the word. He believed in movements: people on the move, just like in the Biblical ‘Exodus’: the struggles of the ‘people of God’ for a more humane and Ignatius, Stan dignified life. Stan left no stone unturned to ensure the Kingdom of God on earth where all (particularly the sub-alterns) would be together and around a table of fellowship. Like a true pilgrim he lived a frugal life. It was a sad joke when they raided his room, besides his computer, the only’possesions’ the authorities were able to seize from him, would put a pauper to shame! A pilgrim is unencumbered with baggage and that’s what Stan was. Even today, his room, with the barest necessities, bears mute witness to the life of a man on the move – a real pilgrim

A little before his arrest in October 2020, Stan in a very powerful message said, “What is happening to me is not something unique- happening to me alone. It is a broader process that is taking place all over the country. We are all aware how prominent intellectuals, lawyers’ writers, poets, activists, students, leaders, they are all put into jail because they have expressed their dissent or raised questions about the ruling powers of India. We are part of the process. In a way I am happy to be part of this process. I am not a silent spectator, but part of the game, and ready to pay the price whatever be it”.

Today, Stan challenges us all to live the legacy he has left us, in a profound way by our presence among the people, by our participation in their struggles and joys, by partnering through a shared vision and mission with other women and men of good will, by having the courage to play a prophetic role and above all, to be a pilgrim. From Taloja Jail he wrote, “My needs are limited. the Adivasis and the Society of Jesus, have taught me to lead a simple life… Listening to the life narratives of the poor prisoners is my joy in Taloja Jail… I see God in their pains and smiles… Many of such poor undertrials don’t know what charges have been put on them, have not seen their chargesheet and just remain for years without any legal or other assistance. The 16 co-accused have not been able to meet each other as we are lodged in different jails or different ‘circles’ with the same jail”; he concludes, “but we will still sing in chorus. A caged bird can still sing.”

Do we have the courage to walk in Stan’s footsteps and sing the way he did, today?

(Fr Cedric Prakash SJ(Gujarat) is a huma rights, reconciliation and peace activist/writer)

The post Challenge to Live Fr. Stan’s Legacy Today! appeared first on SabrangIndia.

It is your birthday today here on earth! You would have completed eighty-six years, if you were around. Well, thatwas not to be; onJuly 5. 2021 you were murdered by a brutal and fascist regime, which did not want a human rights defender like you to continue living! This is your second earthly birthday up above. Not sure how you will be celebrating it!

But here on earth dear Stan you are missed very much! Countless people remember you: your compassion and commitment; your courage to identify with them and their struggles. These are mostly simple, ordinary people; the Adivasis and the Dalits; the excluded and the exploited, the poor and the marginalised. You lived in their midst; you basked in their presence; you smelled of the sheep like a truly good shepherd. They celebrate you today and will always do so! There is certainly no doubt of that!

But I am writing this birthday letter based on the recent conversation I had with you! I can see you smiling (you always had that halting, tentative smile – slow, gentle but warm) and I can imagine others who reading this and with a sneer saying “Conversation with Stan? There must besomething wrong with him!” Well let them say what they want – but I will hold my ground!

It was the night of April 13/14 (less than two weeks ago), Frs. Tom Kavala and P.M. Anthony invited me to spend the night in Bagaicha. This was your home – before the ’powerful’ so unceremoniously took you away on October 8, 2021 like some kind of common criminal. I was given your room to stay in and your bed to sleep on! It was a totally unexpected privilege – something unforgettable which I will treasure all my life!

That day was a very tiring one for me. I fell asleep immediately! But I was suddenly wide-awake feeling as refreshed as ever; at first, I wondered where I was. The fact slowly dawned upon me – I checked the time: I must have been asleep for less than an hour. I began tossing and turning for apparently no reason. When suddenly I felt your presence in the room. Imagination? maybe – who knows!! I am not wont to give in easily to the ‘supernatural’. But I did share my experience with some! I began asking you questions and well, you seemed to be answering them directly and bluntly (like the way you always did). We were having a conversation: something I was convinced that I had to put down in writing; so here I go:

CP: Hi Stan! How are you and how is life up there?

SS: Its good here – I am certainly happy; however, when I look down at what’s happening in India and to my people, I feel very sad and upset and wish I was there with my people.

CP: Can you possibly do something from up there?

SS: What nonsense! Me from up here? Haven’t I left you and others a legacy? After my death there was some enthusiasm about actualising that legacy, but I see that not much has been done. I wonder why?

CP: Stan, the simple reason is that we are afraid! We lack your prophetic courage! We prefer to toe the line! We do not want to disturb the powerful – for fear of losing our privileges and possessions.

SS: Actually, it is much more than that! We have become highly institutionalised and most of our efforts (of the Jesuits and of the Church) are spent in managing/running our institutions, protecting our interests and trying to please the establishment (be it corporate or political).

I have suffered much because of this. I have questioned our priorities, the people we cater to in our institutions and above all, of how we do not want to risk responding radically to the realities in the same way that Jesus would have done!

Our commitment should stem from a Gospel without compromise, firmly rooted in the person and message of Jesus and the Constitution of India. Very often our action is relegated to social works in the project-mould, meant to adhere to ‘dos and don’ts’ rather than in the accompaniment of people.

We indulge in cosmetics and acts of tokenism rather than being visible and vocal in speaking truth to power!  We tend to run with the hare and hunt with the hound! As long as we are safe in our comfort zones, we do not want to rock the boat! We Jesuits easily forget that GC36 wanted us to row in the deep!

CP: Stan, you always said that Vatican II, GC32 and the likes of Bishop Helder Camara and Fr. Pedro Arrupe were among those who inspired you. Any comments?

SS: Yes, Vatican II and its direction to the Church meant much to me! If some more of us had tried to put its teachings into practice, we would have had a very different Church and world today. Bishop Helder Camara tried and he was branded a ‘communist’ (you know how easily they branded me too!). For me, the 32nd General Congregation had a very clear mandate that “the mission of the Society of Jesus today is the service of faith, of which the promotion of justice is an absolute requirement; for reconciliation with God demands the reconciliation of people with one another.” Fr. Pedro Arrupe wanted every Jesuit to live this mandate; sadly, many of us were afraid to do so! It is obvious today too!

CP: What more do you think we should be doing today for a more humane and just society?

SS: There is indeed plenty that each one of you should be doing – both individually and collectively! Do so fearlessly!Give and do not count the cost!

We have to be the voice for the voiceless; for those who continue to live on the peripheries of society. We must collaborate and network with other like-minded individuals, groups and movements; to keep our institutions and spaces open for them and to join them in their initiatives.

CP: Yes Stan, but doing all that one will have to pay the price. It is not easy!

SS: Certainly! Haven’t I paid the price? I suffered so much during incarceration! That’s what life is all about. Just before my arrest in October 2020, I said “What is happening to me is not something unique- happening to me alone. It is a broader process that is taking place all over the country. We are all aware how prominent intellectuals, lawyers, writers, poets, activists, students, leaders, they are all put into jail because they have expressed their dissent or raised questions about the ruling powers of India. We are part of the process. In a way I am happy to be part of this process. I am not a silent spectator, but part of the game, and ready to pay the price whatever be it”.

CP: Wow Stan! Thanks for reminding me of those immortal words from you!

Morning soon dawned! No, it was not a dream! It was for real! You, Stan, challenging me and others to do much more: to live your legacy in more profound, tangible andmeaningful ways.

Yes, we do have a long, long way to go! But with your blessings and guidance from above, we will do our best! Thanks, Stan, for being YOU! Happy Birthday dear Stan!

Your brother,

Cedric

The author is a human rights, peace and reconciliation activist/writer

The post Earthly Birthday Greetings to Stan Swamy in Heaven appeared first on SabrangIndia.

A press conference was organised by the Mumbai Marathi Patrakar Sangh in Mumbai on December 22, 2022. The aim of this press conference was to discuss the issue of reports recently released suggesting fabrication of evidence on the computer of Father Stan Swamy. The speakers at this conference were Fr. Joe Xavier, Fr. Frazer Mascarenhas, Senior Advocate Mihir Desai and Former Professor Nagarjuna G. There were almost 30-40 journalists present in the audience.

This press conference was held to shed light on the recent report released by an American forensic firm, Arsenal, which has exposed how multiple incriminating documents were planted in the computer of Father Stan Swamy, the 83-year-old activist-priest who was arrested for alleged terror links in 2020 and who died in custody a year later. The tragic death of Fr. Stan Swamy, after delayed medical health attention has been termed as a murder in judicial custody by the human rights movement.

The National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) accusations against Stan Swam were exposed by the most recent Arsenal report. These accusations center on purported electronic correspondence between the priest and purported Maoist officials to support the claim that he was a key player in a dangerous Naxal plot. The NIA had also accused Swamy and the others, who were primarily left-leaning activists, scholars, and human rights advocates, of plotting with Maoists to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi based on “materials retrieved from their laptops.”

Arsenal Consulting, a Boston-based forensic company retained by Swamy’s lawyers, says in its thorough findings that close to 44 documents, including the alleged Maoist letters, were inserted by an unidentified cyber attacker who gained access to Swamy’s computer over a lengthy period of five years, starting in 2014 and ending at the time of his raid in 2019.

The first speaker at the conference was Fr. Joe Xavier. Fr. Joe started by telling how Fr. Stan Swamy were a close friend of his. A four-minute call would take place between them every 10 days while Fr. Stan was in Taloja Jail. Fr. Joe shared how, till the end, Fr. Stan would ask about the books that he had written and were in the process of getting published. Fr. Joe said that even when Fr. Stan were in the hospital, he would keep asking about his book. Fr. Joe also said that Fr. Stan kept saying that he had no idea about the letters that were being used by the NIA as evidence against him. On reports of the money that were transferred to him, as alleged by the NIA, Fr. Stan used to say “I am going to be rich. Some 10-15 million is being sent to me as per the NIA.” The speaker said that he used to make light of all the allegations being made by the NIA in the case against him as he knew that it was all planted and fabricated. Fr. Joe, while kindly remembering his friend, said that Fr. Stan died waiting for some evidence to come to light to prove that everything that was being used against him in his case was fabricated.

Fr. Joe Xavier emphasized how the NIA never returned Fr. Stan’s voter ID to him while he was alive. Elaborating on the same, Fr. Joe said that Fr. Stan did not have any other government issued document other than his Voter ID. When he was arrested, the NIA had confiscated the same. So, while hoping to get his bail, Fr. Stan would discuss with Fr. Joe on how he would have to get another document made in order to travel home.

Fr. Joe ended his speech by telling us how Fr. Stan used to say that the state is not performing their duty properly. He would keep talking about how the Adivasi community needed a life with dignity, and the fight for the same is going to be a long one.

The second speaker at the conference was Fr. Frazer Mascarenhas. Continuing with the discussion, Fr Mascarenhas said that this discussion was not only important because the evidence being used by state against human rights defenders is fabricated, but the way the state is treating people who are under-trial. “It is as if the state wants to kill us,” Fr. Mascarenhas told the audience. He further said that, “The case of Fr. Stan’s death behind state bars is just an example of what is happening to human rights defenders in India.”

Fr. Mascarenhas then said that the fabricated evidence was planted on Fr. Stan’s computer because his success was scaring the state. As narrated by him, Fr. Stan’s study on tribals in Jharkhand, who had their land snatched away, was reaching the people. Fr. Stan was also able to fight for the rights of the tribals and get them some justice, which was why he was targeted.

The third speaker in the conference was Nagarjuna G, Former Professor at Homi Bhabhi Centre for Science Education, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. He was explaining how evidence can be planted on a computer, and how intense movement on Fr. Stan’s computer a day before the said computer was taken by the NIA shows that it was all a plan. He emphasized on how this is the era of digital warfare. He went into detail to explain how the data on Fr. Stan’s computer was planted over the period of 5 years.

Post this, a 4 minute audio sent by wise of arrested Advocate Surendra Gadling was then played. Advocate Surendra Gadling is a human rights lawyer, best known for defending Prof. GN Saibaba and activist Arun Fereira. He is the president of Indian Association of People’s Lawyers (IAPL) and has been at the forefront of the quest for justice for Dalits, tribals and other marginalised people. He himself is from the Dalit community. He was arrested under several sections of the UAPA and the IPC.

In the audio, Minal Gadling was heard saying that a lot of innocent people have been targeted by the state and put behind bars. She emphasized on the importance of ensuring that such investigative agencies need to be hired for these human rights defenders cases which are not under the pressure of the government, and can give unbiased and fair reports.

Remembering Fr. Stan, Minal Gadling said due lack of medical facilities granted to him by the state, even after knowing the extent of his ailments, led to his death. And it is essential that the truth behind his death and arrest is brought to the forefront now.

The last speaker at the conference was Senior Advocate Mihir Desai. Desai, who has been representing Fr. Stan since his arrest, and had been a friend of the activist for 30 years. He said, “One thing that I can never believe is that Fr. Stan had anything to do with any kind of violence, even with a fly.”

He further said that “The death of Fr. Stan Swamy was finalised the day he was arrested.” Elaborating on this, Desai said that Fr. Stan was in a frail position. He was an 84 year old with Parkinson’s, along with a number of other ailment. He further said that the state also aware of the issues with his health, and that is why the state did not ask for a single day’s police custody in his case- because they did not want to be accountable for his death.

Desai represents a number of the human rights defenders behind bars, some of which are the ones arrested in the Bhima Koregaon case. Talking about the importance of the arsenal report, the senior advocate said that in most of the cases built against the ones arrested in the Bhima Koregoan case, the main evidence of the NIA was what was recovered from their computers. Thus, with the arsenal report, which has been analysed and issued by a reputed and trusted American organisation, they now aim to refute the false allegations made by the NIA against Fr. Stan Swamy and others. Desai further said, that “according to the Arsenal report, each and every evidence relied upon for Fr. Stan’s prosecution was planted.”

In addition to this, Desai said that according to him, the state, or at least some members of the state are fully aware of the fact that the case against Fr. Stan is false and fabricated. He provided 2 reasons for the same. The first reason, according to him, was that there was a lot of activity on Fr. Stan’s laptop a day before it was confiscated by the NIA, which was done to remove the footprints of the evidence planted in his laptop. He told the audience that two raids were conducted at Fr. Stan’s place. The first one was in the year 2018 and the second one in 2019, where his hard disk was taken by the NIA. The same hard disk was cloned by the prosecution in the court premises and given to the advocated representing Fr. Stan. This cloned hard disk was the then submitted by the advocates of Fr. Stan to the Arsenal Consulting for analysis. The senior advocate also said that they consciously choose Arsenal consulting, and not any Indian investigative agency, as they knew that no Indian agency would be willing to go against the orders of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The second reason given by Desai was the after the Arsenal report was released, the NIA was not even a bit curious to investigate if the evidence was actually planted or not, not even with the aim of disproving the Arsenal report. According to Desai, this behavior shows as if they were either expecting this result or already knew of it. Additionally, as per Desai, if such an investigation had actually been conducted by the NIA, and the results just haven’t been released, it is therefore only because they do not want to share the findings with the court and the world.

Desai ended the conference by emphasising on the fact that through this report, they want to get justice for Fr. Stan Swamy and access relief for the others that are still languishing in jails on the basis of false allegations. Towards the end, one of the journalists present there asked Desai if he is assured that the said Arsenal report will be successful in proving the innocence of the Bhima Koregaon accused, to which the senior advocate replied by saying that we have to depend on the courts, campaigns and media for that. While the courts might take time, it is essential that campaigns go on and the media helps us reach the people with the truth. 

To this, the journalist asked if they would get arrested for reporting on this issue?

The senior advocate then laughed and said, “You might get arrested anyway nowadays, with or without reporting on Stan Swamy”

Who was Stan Swamy?

Father Stan Swamy, the 84-year-old Tribal activist who had been battling for his life since May and had been put on ventilator support at the Holy Family Hospital, Bombay, breathed his last around 1.14 P.M on July 5, 2021. Fr Stan Swamy passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest early in the morning. The Jesuit Priest, wrongfully accused of being a member of a banned organisation Communist Party of India (Maoist), and hatching a serious conspiracy to overthrow the Government of India, was arrested on October 8, 2020. He was booked under sections 124A (sedition), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups), 505(1)(b) (makes, publishes or circulates any statement, rumour or report with intent to cause, or which is likely to cause, fear or alarm to the public) 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code and sections 13 (punishment for unlawful activities), 16 (punishment for terrorist act), 17 (punishment for raising funds for terrorist act), 18 (punishment for conspiracy) 18-A (punishment for organising terrorist camps), 18-B (punishment for recruiting people for terrorist act), 20 (punishment for being member of a terrorist gang), 38 (offences related to membership of a terrorist gang) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Related:

Fr Stan Swamy’s institutional murder
Hunger fast against Stan Swamy’s arrest: Ranchi
Father Stan Swamy to remain in Taloja jail till June 7
Father Stan Swamy finally gets first Covid shot, health continues to deteriorate in jail
Have the courts not learnt anything about medical bail?
Bombay HC directs Fr. Stan Swamy to be shifted to Holy Family Hospital for 2 weeks
Father Stan Swamy moves Bombay HC for bail
83-year-old human rights defender Father Stan Swamy sent to Taloja Jail!
Evidence planted on Jesuit-activist Stan Swamy’s laptop: Arsenal US Report
Bhima Koregaon case: Was evidence planted to implicate activists?
Primary goals were surveillance and incriminating document delivery: Arsenal Report
Rona Wilson moves Bombay HC, demands probe into ‘planted evidence’
Probe claims of Rona Wilson’s laptop being hacked: Sudha Bharadwaj’s family and friends
Former Professor Shoma Sen moves Bombay HC against UAPA charges
Bhima Koregaon case: NIA attempts to dismiss Arsenal’s findings about Rona Wilson’s laptop

The post The death of Fr. Stan Swamy was finalised the day he was arrested: Senior Advocate Mihir Desai appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Christmas is for the bravehearted: those who see and welcome the ‘strangers’ in their midst, those who have come from a different part of the country, to deal with the cumbersome process of having their names registered in the Census operations. The locals have already taken a stand against the unconstitutional Citizens Amendment Act (CAA) and now make every effort to ensure that no one is excluded from Census; in particular, the poor and the vulnerable, those caught up in and impoverished by the rising costs; those who live on the peripheries.

Christmas is for the bravehearted: who create space in their homes for the weary travellers, a bedraggled couple, who have journeyed through many difficulties. He is aged, she is heavily pregnant. They have been knocking from door -to-door for a place for the night; but sadly, in vain. All are very busy preparing for ‘Christmas: cleaning, decorating and illuminating their homes, making sweets, rushing to the tailors for their new clothes, to the mall to buy the last-minute expensive gifts. One tramp however, who points to the possibility of some place far away outside the town.

Christmas is for the bravehearted: as the couple makes their way to the periphery, they find a stable. The caretaker is fully inebriated, but that does not deter his goodness. He unlocks the stable so that the exhausted couple are able to sit in the warmth and comfort of the hay. He shares his evening meal and his water with them. Finds some swaddling clothes because he understands that there will soon be a new arrival. The animals who are inside know that they will soon be part of a defining moment of history. The stench and squalor of the stable give way to sweet fragrance and goodness. This moment is not meant for the heartless!

Christmas is for the bravehearted: listening to the angels sing “Glory to God in the highest; and on earth peace to men of good will!” The angels are in unison and their song is harmonious! Their message is unequivocal: the glory of God which complements the need and importance of peace and goodwill for all men and women. This is easier said than done! In a world which is divided and fragmented, where hate speech and violence gain legitimacy, where ‘the other’ is denigrated and demonized with ease – what one yearns for is for a peace which is vibrant, which is inclusive and transcends the pettiness of our world today!
Christmas is for the bravehearted: the shepherds who listen to, internalise and actualise the song of the angels. They were ordinary, rugged folk who lived on the hill-side. When they hear the good news of the birth of the Saviour by the angels, they leave their sheep behind and go in haste to worship the new-born! They are joyously spontaneous in their response. There is no pretence or shallowness in their deed! There is clarity in their goal and they reach their destination! One is reminded of our protesting farmers who inspite of great difficulties courageously succeeded in having the anti-farmer laws revoked, sometime ago!

Christmas is for the bravehearted: the Magi are wise people, who physically lived in a distant land. Though they were rich, they had a singular mission in life: a relentless search for the truth and for the Messiah, who would be that truth. They go all out of their way to find him and give him of their best! The Magi find solace and spiritual fulfilment when they encounter Jesus. They realise that having found the truth they have to take a stand for justice. They return by another way demonstrating the unflinching courage not to succumb to the manipulative and murderous mechanisms of Herod. They take a stand for the minorities, the excluded and the exploited, for all victims of injustice! They remind us of Fr Stan Swamy, the others incarcerated in the Bhima-Koregaon conspiracy case, and the many bravehearts, illegally imprisoned because they took a stand for human rights, justice and peace!

Christmas is for the bravehearted: like the people of Egypt. A refugee couple with a little babe, arrive in their midst, with practically nothing! The trio has had an arduous and long journey through hostile terrain. They were forced to flee from their native land because of the vengeful plot by a tyrant. They were refugees but the Egyptians treated them as their own: warmly welcoming them into a society which would ensure their protection and security. Millions of migrants and refugees today, the ‘nowhere people, victims of war and persecution desperately seek refuge in a foreign land. Some bravehearts do welcome them!

Christmas is for the strong who can honestly sift through the material and mundane of the world

Christmas is for the bravehearted: and of course, there is Joseph! He is the foster-father of Jesus has always been referred to as a just man. He dreams and lives the impossible dream believing in the dignity, equity and the rights of all! From the moment, Mary was betrothed to him, Joseph was confronted with a host of sensitive issues. He had to make very difficult decisions; every decision of his would impact on Mary or Jesus or on both them, in a profound way. He did so with a great sense of prudence and responsibility and after much discernment. The Biblical righteous ness (justice) was his forte; he was imbued with a tremendous sense of justice

Christmas is for the bravehearted: so beautifully epitomised by Mary. She is chosen by God as the mother of Jesus. It is certainly not easy for her to accept this heavy responsibility. After due discernment, she willingly and courageously accepts Gods will. Her yes is unconditional! She then goes in haste to be with her kinswoman Elizabeth; in her old age, Elizabeth has conceived and will soon become the mother of John the Baptist. As she embraces Elizabeth, Mary sings the Magnificat — a prophetic and courageous song for change! During the birth of Jesus and till the very end of her life on earth, Mary radiates this braveheartedness.

Christmas is for the bravehearted: for those who recognise Jesus in the Crib, as the saviour of the world! Christmas is for the strong who can honestly sift through the material and mundane of the world, which has relegated Christmas to Santa Clauses and Christmas trees, to eating, drinking and dancing, to new clothes and expensive gifts, to decorations and illuminations, to splurging and merry-making. Christmas is for the bravehearted who understand that the birth of Jesus is about enabling and ensuring truth, justice, liberty, equality, fraternity, inclusiveness, joy, love, peace in our broken world today. Christmas is indeed for the bravehearted who have the courage to put Christ back into Christmas!

—
*Human rights, reconciliation & peace activist/writer

Courtesy: https://www.counterview.net

The post Christmas reminds us of Fr Stan Swamy, other bravehearts incarcerated ‘illegally’ appeared first on SabrangIndia.

One more report by an American forensic firm, arsenal, exposes how multiple incriminating documents were planted in the computer of Father Stan Swamy, the 83-year-old activist-priest who was arrested for alleged terror links in 2020 and who died in custody a year later. The tragic death of Stan Swamy, after delayed medical health attention has been termed as a murder in judicial custody by the human rights movement.

The latest Arsenal report blasts a hole in the National Investigation Agency (NIA)’s charges against Stan Swam. These charges centre around alleged electronic correspondence between the priest and supposed Maoist leaders to make the case that he was part of an explosive Naxal conspiracy.

In its detailed findings, Arsenal Consulting, a Boston-based forensic outfit hired by Swamy’s lawyers, says close to 44 documents, including the so-called Maoist letters, were planted by an unknown cyber attacker who gained access to Swamy’s computer over an extended period of five years, starting from 2014 to the point when he was raided in 2019.

Both NDTV and Washington Post broke this story on Tuesday, December 13.

Arsenal Consulting also says it has extensive experience of working in digital forensics and has investigated multiple high-profile cases like the Boston Marathon bombing case.

Stan Swamy, a Jharkhand-based Jesuit priest who worked among tribals, was arrested in the Bhima Koregaon case, a move that sparked wide condemnation. For decades, Stan Swamy worked and lived among Jharkand adivasis (indigenous peoples) and extended legal aid to those criminalised fort demanding land and livelihood rights. The criticism against the authorities escalated when he died within a year of his incarceration due to Covid-related complications. The UN and the EU both reacted strongly to the news of Father Stan Swamy’s death. A UN official called the news “devastating,” and added that the priest had been imprisoned on “false charges of terrorism”.  

Despite this, he NIA, however, claimed he was part of a conspiracy along with 15 others to instigate riots in the village of Bhima-Koregaon in Maharashtra in 2018, when scores of Dalits had gathered to commemorate a historic battle in which Dalits defeated an upper caste army.

Based on “documents retrieved from their computers”, the NIA had also charged Swamy and the others – mainly left-leaning activists, academics, and human rights defenders – with scheming with Maoists to kill Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a video recorded just before his arrest in 2020, Father Swamy had completely rubbished the purported Maoist letters found on his computer, saying he “denied and disowned every single extract that was put before me” by investigators.

Now, close to 17 months after his death, Arsenal Consulting’s report shows that the hacker used a malware called NetWire to gain access to Father Swamy’s computer on October 19, 2014, for both highly invasive surveillance and “document delivery”.

According to Arsenal, one such document “delivered” by the attacker to Stan Swamy’s computer and part of the NIA’s chargesheet against the priest, was an alleged letter sent by one “SS” – presumed to be Father Stan Swamy – to a “Vijayan Dada” on October 2017. In the letter, “SS” asks “Vijayan” to take action “to capture senior leaders of ruling BJP in the state and demand that the oppressive laws be done with.”

‘Maoist’ letter, part of chargesheet against Father Stan Swamy, was planted on his computer as per US report.

Another document in the NIA chargesheet against Swamy, detailing the manpower and weaponry of a Maoist outfit called People’s Liberation Guerilla Army in different Indian states, is also among the planted documents, Arsenal says.

According to Arsenal, they “found no evidence which would suggest that the… documents were ever interacted with in any legitimate way on Fr. Swamy’s computer. More specifically, there is no evidence which would suggest any of the (planted) documents, or the hidden 22 folders they were contained in, were ever opened” by Swamy.

Earlier reports (2020, 2021) by Arsenal Consulting had found proof of similar planting of evidence on the systems of at least two other co-accused in the Bhima Koregaon case – activists Rona Wilson and Surendra Gadling. The reports found an unknown hacker had planted over 30 documents on the computer belonging to Rona Wilson and at least 14 incriminating letters on Surendra Gadling’s computer.

All three – Stan Swamy, Surendra Gadling and Rona Wilson – have been targeted by the same hacker, according to Arsenal.

While Arsenal has not speculated on the identity of the attacker, the report says the attacker made frantic attempts to “perform an extensive clean-up of their malicious activities” on June 11, 2019 – a day before the Pune Police seized Stan Swamy’s computer (June 12). The timing raises the question of whether the hacker even had prior knowledge of the impending police action.

NDTV wrote to the NIA requesting for comments on the findings of Arsenal Consulting. However they , did not receive a response till the time this article was published. The story will be updated if any response is received from the agency.

Related:

Bhima Koregaon case: Was evidence planted to implicate activists?

Primary goals were surveillance and incriminating document delivery: Arsenal Report

Rona Wilson moves Bombay HC, demands probe into ‘planted evidence’

Probe claims of Rona Wilson’s laptop being hacked: Sudha Bharadwaj’s family and friends

Former Professor Shoma Sen moves Bombay HC against UAPA charges

Bhima Koregaon case: NIA attempts to dismiss Arsenal’s findings about Rona Wilson’s laptop

The post Evidence planted on Jesuit-activist Stan Swamy’s laptop: Arsenal US Report appeared first on SabrangIndia.

A little over a year ago, on 5 July 2021, when Father Stan Swamy left us, the world mourned the death of a great human being who epitomised compassion, courage, collaboration and commitment! ‘Stan’, as he was lovingly called by those close to him, died whilst he was still incarcerated. From the time he was illegally arrested on 8 October 2020, he languished in the Taloja jail; his deteriorating health conditions prompted the Special Court to direct the jail authorities to admit him to a private hospital in Bombay where he finally succumbed, despite the best possible medical treatment given to him at that time! It was indeed too little too late. For one, Stan should never have been arrested; secondly, the frail 84-year-old Jesuit priest was already suffering from severe health ailments. His death, was universally regarded as an ‘institutional murder’. It was nothing short of that! Till today, Stan has not yet been exonerated of the trumped-up charges in the Bhima- Koregaon conspiracy case; fifteen others still remain in jail (though a couple are on bail) in the same case.

There is no doubt that Stan has left behind a rich legacy worthy of emulation! He had a legion of friends- mainly the Adivasis and the sub-altern groups. He identified with them; walked the talk and accompanied them in their struggle for jal, jungle aur jameen. He left no stone unturned, in the defense of their legitimate Constitutional rights. His collaborators were women and men from all walks of life who were convinced that Stan lived his life totally for a more humane and just society. In the realisation of his vision, Stan made many enemies – the rich and powerful, the mafia who were plundering the area for natural resources, the corrupt politicians and their corporate honchos, and other vested interests. Prophets, like Stan are inconvenient; it was so obvious that Stan was a sheer nuisance to these vested interests. He thwarted some of their plans of destroying the lives of Adivasis, their livelihood and their environment. They wanted him out of the way and they succeeded! 

Stan was an inspiration to many all through his life and one year after his death, he still continues to be so. His was a life of selfless service for the poor and the marginalised, the excluded and the exploited and the other sub-alterns of a dehumanized society. During his incarceration and on his death last year, there were hundreds of thousands who came out on the streets, both in India and abroad- first, condemning his illegal arrest and then his murder. His death was news all over the globe: in the print and electronic media; social media went viral extolling his significant contribution to the sub-altern groups. Like a true Jesuit and a worthy son of St Ignatius, Stan did all he could to “set the world on fire” through the many values he epitomized, among them Compassion, Courage, Collaboration and Commitment. 

Compassion: Stan’s heart bled for the excluded and exploited; his life was focused on the reality and the cries of the poor. He did all he could to alleviate their suffering by identifying with them, being immersed in their joys, griefs and anxieties; walking with them and addressing the systemic unjust issues which caused their impoverishment

 Courage: Stan lived the dictum of Jesus: “fear no one”, as he spoke truth to power and took on vested interests who denied the Adivasis of their legitimate rights for their identity and culture, land and other natural resources. He fought tenaciously for the youth who were imprisoned without justification. He was not afraid to risk his own life for justice for others.

 Collaboration: Stan always believed in collaboration with all women and men of goodwill. He realised that people from every segment of society have to come together in order that Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity are internalised and belong to “we the people of India”. He forged and belonged to networks and alliances which moved towards that goal.

 Commitment: Above all, Stan was unflinching in his commitment to God and in the service of his people. At great risk, he gave without counting the cost. He lived the Gospel without compromise and like his Master Jesus he was one-sided in a total commitment to the service of faith and the promotion of justice, for the poor and the excluded

Stan has left the country with an unparalleled legacy. Even in his death, Stan challenges one and all to do much more, in the face of the deteriorating situation The situation in the country is bad in every sphere: political, economic and social. Global surveys on significant indicators puts India either rock-bottom or among the worst. Divisiveness, discrimination, demonization and denigration of minorities hold sway; hate and violence is mainstreamed. Constitutional bodies which are meant to be impartial and objective are pathetically compromised and even destroyed to become pawns of the political masters, The less said about paid ‘godified’ media the better!

Human rights defenders and those who take a visible and vocal stand for truth and justice are intimidated and harassed, subject to heavy police interrogations and even incarcerated (as we see in the case of the BK-19, those detained under the UAPA and other draconian laws). 

Mohammed Zubair and Teesta Setalvad who brought to the nation the plain truth, are in custody today on baseless fabricated charges; so also, are former IPS officers R. B. Sreekumar and Sanjiv Bhatt. On the other hand, those who revel in hate speech, venom and unconstitutional language, like Nupur Sharma, get away with impunity and are provided with State immunity. The regime is absolutely corrupt: they blackmail and buy up opposition legislators to destroy Governments which were elected with a people’s mandate. Just a few days ago this was also witnessed as the Government of Maharashtra was so brutally toppled! Democracy is being bulldozed; the pluralistic fabric of a nation based on a visionary and pathbreaking Constitution, is slowly being dismantled!

A few days before his arrest in October 2020, in a video-message which went viral, Stan said, “What is happening to me is not something unique happening to me alone. It is a broader process that is taking place all over the country. We are all aware how prominent intellectuals, lawyers’ writers, poets, activists, students, leaders, they are all put into jail because they have expressed their dissent or raised questions about the ruling powers of India. We are part of the process. In a way I am happy to be part of this process. I am not a silent spectator, but part of the game, and ready to pay the price whatever be it.” 

Stan was not a silent spectator and has certainly paid the price; in doing so, he has left us with a rich legacy of compassion, courage, collaboration and commitment. Stan is no longer in our midst at a time, when the nation desperately needs the likes of him. One thing however, is certain Stan will never die and whatever the consequences, his legacy lives forever! 

Fr Cedric Prakash (GUJ) is a human rights, reconciliation and peace activist/writer.

The post Fr. Stan Swamy: his legacy lives forever! appeared first on SabrangIndia.