Bhopal marked the 41st anniversary of the 1984 gas tragedy on Tuesday with torch marches, candlelight vigils and sharp criticism of the government. Victims’ groups demanded an Empowered Commission to ensure medical care, compensation and rehabilitation, accusing the BJP government of prolonged “inaction.”
On the night of December 2–3, 1984, a deadly leak of MIC gas from the Union Carbide plant killed at least 5,479 people and left thousands disabled. Activists said that even today, toxic waste remains uncleared and survivors continue to suffer due to lack of doctors in gas relief hospitals.
Rachna Dhingra of the Bhopal Group for Information and Action called the government’s interfaith prayer event “hypocritical,” alleging misuse of funds meant for jobs and pensions for victims. Several organisations held torch marches across the city, while Bhopal Memorial Hospital organised a candlelight tribute.
Victims’ groups also burned an effigy of Dow Chemical, Union Carbide’s current owner. On Monday, four survivor groups released a “chargesheet” against the BJP, but the party denied all allegations, saying it has always prioritised the welfare of gas victims.
