In the field of Conflict Studies, conflict per se is not seen as something involving negative connotation, however the violent conflict is. It is only when the conflict turns violent that people begin to lose their patience along with the innovative and peaceful ways to resolve it, which eventually makes the violence protracted. The sure shot way to resolve any conflict is by adhering to the principles of justice while acknowledging and compensating for all the injustices that have been done. Though the theory does not seem to hold true in the realist world we live in where nations vie with each other and interest overcomes norms and principles, yet in some way or the other it may be employed in solving internal disputes within the country.
If we take the example of Hindu-Muslim riots in India and see the trajectory of the conflict, it becomes crystal clear that they were all politically motivated. Though the riots have continued unabated in the country, it can be said that unlike before, now it is the security forces and the police who are becoming active partners in riots. Gopalgarh riots that took place on September 14, 2011 corroborates to the active involvement of security forces. The police opened fire targeting Muslims and the mosque which resulted in the death of 10 and left 30 others injured. The recent Faizabad riots in which massive looting took place happened under the very nose of the police and of course everyone is aware of the fact as to how the police treat the victims of riots and refuse to register their complaints, forget about acting thereon.
However, the recent action of the police in Rudauli which curbed the communal clashes that were to take place is commendable. The situation worsened when the sitting BJP MLA Ram Chandra Yadav made hateful speeches which instigated the mob for rioting. The mob began to head for the homes of the Muslims but the police’s steadfast action and the will to uphold their duty saved innocent people. The clash with the rioters led 10 policemen injured, yet they controlled the situation.
It is this will that is needed to safeguard the internal conditions of the country otherwise the whole country will be ripped apart with the communal fire that is doing the round with a fresh and fast pace. Though such incidents happen once in a blue moon, yet they keep the hope alive for a better future whose chances of emergence appear very bleak in the present political scenario. Will dereliction of duty give way to upholding the duty?