Just hours after being sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, Trump granted pardon to the mob, who, in his support, breached the Capitol building on Jan 6, 2021, leading to the deaths of five police officers and four civilians.
In a first significant official action marking his second term, US President Donald Trump on Jan 20 granted clemency to over 1,500 individuals charged in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, including leaders of the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers organizations.
"These are the hostages," Trump declared from the Oval Office, referring to the convicted and charged defendants. "Approximately 1,500 for a pardon – full pardon."
"We hope they come out tonight," Trump said.
This presidential clemency extends to hundreds previously convicted of serious offenses, including police assault and property destruction during attempts to interfere with the power transition process.
According to the Justice Department, figures indicate over 730 individuals received misdemeanor convictions related to January 6. Additionally, approximately 300 cases remain active as of Jan 20, with numerous defendants facing serious felony charges, including police assault.
Trump has repeatedly sought to downplay the events of Jan. 6, when a mob of his supporters breached the Capitol to stop Congress from reaffirming Joe Biden's victory over him in the 2020 presidential election.
Largest criminal investigation in US history
The seven-hour siege resulted in injuries to more than 140 police officers and led to the deaths of four Trump supporters and five police officers, both directly and indirectly.
The subsequent FBI and Justice Department investigation became the largest criminal investigation in US history, resulting in charges against more than 1,580 individuals and securing approximately 1,270 convictions.
Convictions and nature of offenses
According to the Justice Department, at least 55% of January 6 prosecutions involve minor offenses like trespassing or disorderly conduct. Most convicted individuals received probation or brief prison sentences and have been released.
The defendants include elderly individuals caught in the moment and others who briefly entered the Capitol without causing damage or harm. Many lack criminal records, and numerous participants claim they never intended to enter the building or disrupt the 2020 election certification process, with some stating police allowed their entry.
‘Day of love and peace’
Despite Trump's characterization of Jan 6 as "a day of love and peace" with supporters posing "zero threat," extensive video evidence shows violent confrontations between protesters and police, including attacks with various weapons and physical altercations.
Pardons prompt backlash
Craig Sicknick, brother of US Capitol police officer Brian Sicknick who died following the insurrection, has openly opposed these pardons through a liberal advocacy group's petition, stating it enables rioters to evade responsibility, according to CNN.
"Donald Trump and his loyalists not only celebrate the deadly mob that killed my brother — they are determined to pardon those responsible," Sicknick said.
"It is a betrayal to not only the families and loved ones of those who were injured and killed but to all Americans," he added.
on Jan 19, Republican senator Mike Rounds reflected, "There was violence. This was not peaceful. People were in harm's way, and it was a very, very bad day for America." Acknowledging the president's constitutional pardon authority, he emphasized the future.
EAM Jaishankar attends Trump’s grand inauguration ceremony
Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar attended Trump's grand inauguration ceremony at the US Capitol. He is among a select few world leaders who were extended an invitation by Trump's incoming administration. Mr Jaishankar is reportedly carrying a letter on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for President Trump, who returned to the White House on Jan 20 for his second term.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also became one of the first leaders in the world to congratulate Trump after he took oath on Jan 20. "Congratulations my dear friend President Donald Trump on your historic inauguration as the 47th President of the United States! I look forward to working closely together once again, to benefit both our countries and to shape a better future for the world. Best wishes for a successful term ahead!" Modi wrote on X.
Jaishankar also attended the special prayer ceremony organized for Trump ahead of his oath ceremony.
"Privileged to represent India as External Affairs Minister and Special Envoy of PM at the swearing-in ceremony of the 47th President of the United States of America today in Washington DC. Attended the Inauguration Day Prayer Service at St John's Church this morning," Jaishankar wrote on X.
At Trump's inauguration, Jaishankar was seated in the front row immediately in front of Trump as he gave his first speech as the 47th President of the US. India and the US share a special, privileged, and strategic partnership.
The EAM’s presence at the presidential inauguration was in line with India's general practice of sending special envoys to attend the swearing-in ceremony of heads of state and government.
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