A Convention, ' Deepening Socio-economic crisis and direction of struggles for Demoracy and the country' was organised to mark the first anniversary of the formation of ALL INDIA PEOPLE'S FORUM.(AIPF) . Delegates from different states participated in the convention held at the Constitution Club in New Delhi. The speakers highlighted the issues being faced by the people and growing intervention of corporate in our polity. The threat to democracy and secularism from the Hindutva forces also came into special mention by most of the speakers. It was wonderful to hear people who became victim of state highhendedness.

Vidya Bhushan Rawat

A Convention, ' Deepening Socio-economic crisis and direction of struggles for Demoracy and the country' was organised to mark the first anniversary of the formation of ALL INDIA PEOPLE'S FORUM.(AIPF) . Delegates from different states participated in the convention held at the Constitution Club in New Delhi. The speakers highlighted the issues being faced by the people and growing intervention of corporate in our polity. The threat to democracy and secularism from the Hindutva forces also came into special mention by most of the speakers. It was wonderful to hear people who became victim of state highhendedness. Right from Dr Binayak Sen to Dr Sunilam, Dr John Dayal, Dr Manzoor Alam, Anand Swaroop Verma, Dipankar Bhattacharayaji and many others highlighted the growing threat to democracy from right wing forces. Isha Khandelwal narrated the story from Jagdalpur ( Bastar). Himanshu Kuamar too spoke about the police atrocities on the aadivasis.

It was a great show of strength by AIPF and the biggest achievement for us was that speakers could finish their speeches on time and in a short span over 16 prominent speakers expressed their views.

For many us, it was heartwarming to listen narratives of Prof Jagmohan Singh, nephew of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and how would he had responded to the current crisis.

The AiPF also honored various student leaders from different Universities who had lead historic battle against authorities attempt to muzzle freedom of expression and right to free speech. Those who were honored were Mr Kanhaiyya Kumar, President of JNUSU along with other student leaders. Friends from FTII were also honored. In all, AIPF resolve to strengthen people's movements for democracy and secularism.

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