Why the Life and Times of Fr Stan Swami Matter Even More Today

Verghese V Joseph –

Fr Stan Swamy, a Jesuit priest and tribal rights activist, dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of the marginalised and oppressed in India. His unwavering commitment to social justice and human rights earned him the title of the country’s oldest prisoner charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for his alleged role in a Maoist conspiracy. Swamy’s death on July 5, 2021, while still in custody, has sparked outrage and calls for justice from human rights organisations and individuals around the world.

Swamy was born on April 26, 1937, in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India. He lost his father at a young age and was raised by his older brother, who took up farming to support the family. Swamy was exposed to the work of Jesuit priests at an early age and was inspired to undertake religious studies in 1957. He spent his regency at St Xavier’s High School Chaibasa in west Singhbhum and worked among the tribals of central India for over three decades.

Swamy’s activism was rooted in his belief in the importance of education and his commitment to the protection and well-being of India’s Adivasi community. He was the director of the Jesuit-run Indian Social Institute, Bangalore, from 1975 to 1986, where he worked to empower the tribals and advocate for their rights. He also questioned the non-implementation of the Fifth Schedule, which stipulates the setting up of a Tribes Advisory Council with members solely of the Adivasi community for their protection, well-being, and development in the state.

Swamy’s work among the tribals and his advocacy for their rights made him a target of the Indian government. In October 2020, he was arrested and charged by the National Investigation Agency under the UAPA for his alleged role in the 2018 Bhima Koregaon violence and links to the Communist Party of India (Maoist). Swamy, who was suffering from Parkinson’s disease, had requested bail on medical grounds, but his requests were repeatedly denied.

While incarcerated, Swamy’s health deteriorated, and he was put on ventilator support. He died on July 5, 2021, ahead of his bail hearing in the Bombay High Court. Swamy’s death has been widely condemned, with human rights organisations and individuals calling for justice and accountability. The Jesuit Conference of South Asia has petitioned the Bombay High Court to clear Swamy’s name from the case, and his counsel has submitted that his death was caused by his age and past health conditions.

Swamy’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment to social justice and human rights. He spent his life fighting for the rights of the marginalised and oppressed, and his work continues to inspire and impact many lives. His death while still in custody has highlighted the importance of protecting human rights defenders and ensuring that they are not subjected to arbitrary detention and mistreatment.

In today’s age, where the pursuit of individual success and material wealth often takes precedence over compassion and social responsibility, the life and times of Fr Stan Swamy matter more than ever. His commitment to social justice, human rights, and the well-being of the Adivasi community serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right and fighting for the rights of those in need. Swamy’s legacy will continue to inspire and impact many lives, and his unwavering commitment to social justice and human rights will serve as a beacon of hope for generations to come.

Fr Stan Swamy’s life and times matter today because they serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of social justice, human rights, and compassion. Swamy’s unwavering commitment to fighting for the rights of the marginalised and oppressed has left a lasting impact on India and the world. His legacy will continue to inspire and impact many lives, and his unwavering commitment to social justice and human rights will serve as a beacon of hope for generations to come. It is up to us to carry on his legacy and continue the fight for social justice and human rights in his memory.