SFI to hold night vigil ahead of Ram Navami to ensure communal harmony in Bengal

The Students Federation of India (SFI) has announced plans to organize a night vigil across Bengal on April 5 and 6 in anticipation of the Ram Navami celebrations. This initiative aims to ensure the safety of citizens and prevent any incidents of communal violence during the festival. The SFI has been particularly concerned with the growing incidents of unrest during the last few years, which have raised alarm among various sections of society.

Debanjan De, the state secretary of SFI, outlined the group's strategy for the upcoming vigil. He emphasized that the focus will be on areas with mixed populations, particularly those that have experienced communal tensions in the past. According to De, the vigil is intended to monitor potential trouble spots and maintain peace. “On the night of April 5, our volunteers will be on the streets, ensuring the safety of people against any provocation,” he said. SFI workers will conduct various activities such as small processions, street meetings, and awareness campaigns to promote communal harmony.

In addition to the night vigil, SFI members will focus on raising awareness among the public about identifying potential troublemakers. They will be educating residents on the importance of peace and urging them to avoid any actions that could escalate into violence. The organization's volunteers will be stationed in sensitive areas, working to defuse any possible tensions before they arise.

The SFI’s efforts come in response to the politicalization of Ram Navami celebrations by major political parties. Both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) have used the occasion to rally support, particularly in light of the upcoming 2026 state assembly elections. SFI leaders have criticized these political maneuvers, accusing the parties of using the festival to divide communities. To counter this, SFI will promote the message of unity with the slogan "Hindu Muslim Bhai Bhai" (Hindus and Muslims are brothers), challenging the divisive rhetoric employed by some political groups.

Throughout the two days, SFI will also emphasize social issues such as corruption and the right to education in their campaigns. The group aims to align its message with the values of social justice and collective welfare. Volunteers will continue their activities across Bengal, ensuring the celebration of Ram Navami remains peaceful, while also countering any attempts to create division along communal lines.