#NoMoreHashtags

When is papa coming home?

The child asked for the umpteenth time

The pang in the mother’s heart

Resurfaced like a fresh wound.

What excuse was she to make this time?

For she herself was seeking answers.

Stories of heaven and God held no meaning,

When it was hell down here on earth.

A crime, they said it was.

Little did she know as she pondered,

That skin, caste and faith,

Were the crimes in the modern day.

Upholder of the law, protector of the people,

Many more titles was she familiarized with,

But none could she relate to now,

As her trust shattered in the rule of law.

Incidents of late triggered furore amongst all,

More voices echoed her angst,

Amid which she silently prayed,

And winced at the thought of another hashtag.

As she stood there with the boy by her side,

Gaping at the lifeless body,

She felt life leave not only from hers,

But from the world and mankind too.