New Delhi :
In a remarkable example of promoting communal harmony, just four months after his son, Ankit Saxena ‘s death, his father Yashpal Saxena hosted an Iftaar party (traditional feast during Ramadan) at his home which wore a festive look. The party was organised under Ankit Saxena Trust.
Ankit Saxena, a professional photographer was stabbed to death in the Raghubir Nagar of the Khyala area of West Delhi allegedly by his Muslim girlfriend’s family members. The Muslim family had opposed the relationship as the two belonged to different communities. The event was free of any political interference.
Yashpal Saxena told that the incident was born out of anger and hatred. He said that he had suggested the girl’s family to resolve the matter amicably through discussions but the girl’s family had so much anger in their minds that they didn’t listen.
The police reportedly had arrested the girl’s mother and uncle from the crime scene and with her 14 year old brother was detained. Her father was taken into custody later. In the charge sheet it is stated that Akbar Ali, girl’s father slit Ankit’s throat.
“I was going to meet Ankit when I got to know my family has killed him. My uncle has done this.” his girl friend said.
Following the incident there were increasing attempts to paint the murder in communal colours but Yashpal Sharma didn’t give into it.
“I don’t want any inflammatory statements. I feel very saddened by what happened, but I don’t want anyone to create a hostile environment against Muslims. I have nothing against any religion.” he told to a news channel.
Yashpal asserted that every Muslim cannot be branded for this incident. He urged everyone to stop spreading communal tension and dragging him into it. He said, “I don’t want a society where hatred is spread.”
In today’s scenario where communal tensions flare up at the drop of a hat, Yashpal Sharma’s attempt to bridge the Hindu-Muslim divide by holding an Iftaar party is extraordinary.