The Hindu

Mangalore, May 1: The return of non-violent, democratic protests at a time when most people are losing faith in such methods of agitation is heartening, film actor G K Govinda Rao has said. It is imperative for those in power to listen to these voices, which operate within a democratic set up, he added.

Inaugurating a seminar on "Challenges to secularism in Dakshina Kannada district" organised by the Manavata Vedike, Mangalore, here on Sunday, Rao said the united front put up by the people of Varanasi after the recent blasts there, the pro-democracy upsurge in Nepal and the determined protest by Narmada Bachao Andolan activist Medha Patkar were pointers to this emerging trend.

The situation in Varanasi was potent for the outbreak of a communal clash.

It was the determination of ordinary Hindus and Muslims who joined hands to defuse the situation, he said. King Gyanendra had to bow to the demands for restoration of democracy by his people. Patkar proved her ability to focus on issues in a non-violent manner, Rao said

These developments were taking place at time when the scenario in some democratic set ups was pretty bleak, he added. Criticising communists and the saffron brigade for taking the country to the brink with their skewed ideologies, Rao questioned the silence of "pro-secular anti-communal organisations" such as Komu Souharda Vedike to the massacre of innocent adivasis in Chattisgarh allegedly carried out by members of naxal organisations.  K Paniraj, critic, spoke. Yashwanth Maroli, president, presided. 

Vasudev Uchil delivered the introductory remarks. Yadav Shetty welcomed the gathering.