Jaipur: Eminent writer and social activist Arundhati Roy today alleged India is witnessing a war within itself since independence and is actually a poor super power.
"Since the country gained independence there have been wars against tribals, dalits and others in several parts of the country leading to violation of human rights," she said.
"Now people are struggling for human rights more than justice," Roy told a conference "Attack on Life, Liberty and Democratic Rights by the State" here.
"Cases of police atrocities on dalits and tribals are increasing," she said terming Indian as a "poor super power".
"Our elite say we are a super power. Twenty five per cent of country`s total wealth is with a hundred people and they say it is development. "Tribal land is being acquired for industrialization and the voice of tribals is suppressed if they protest. Is it a development?" asked Roy.
"When we talk of poor nations African countries are on top. But, the fact is that eight Indian states together account for more poor people than in 26 African nations, " she
said.
"I visited Dantewara in the recent past and met local people. Thousands are forced to live in camps while many roam in forests due to atrocities by security forces.
"Those who speak against the government are dubbed as Maoist," Roy said. Senior Supreme Court lawyer Prashant Bhushan favoured simplification of the judicial procedure to clear pendency of cases.
He said a Commission should also be set up for hearing complaints against judges. The conference was organized by the Rajasthan chapter of the People`s Union For Civil Liberties.
PTI
