Pics: Anush Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Jul 1: "Attacks on minorities are an indirect way to tell them that they are not eligible to live in this nation and that human rights are not applicable for them," said member of National Integration Council and human rights activist John Dayal.
Addressing an interaction with Christian leaders at Sandesha auditorium here on Saturday, June 30, he said, "The recent attacks on minorities and the stand taken by political parties has made the atmosphere fearful for the minorities to live in.
"There are mobs particularly targeting Muslims, Dalits and occasionally Christians. There is a need for the civilized society to voice out and put all efforts to block these anti-social elements and give moral support to those living in fear and threats," he said.
"We can win hatred by peace. At the same time, the laws of this land will always support all peace activities. But the attackers who are narrow-minded in the matter of beliefs and customs always think they are above the law. Many times they use law in their favour. Killers are escaping punishments by filing counter cases. On the basis of communal aspects they are getting support. This will further boost the blood thirst of attackers," he said.
"Fear of death is another reason that people maintain silence when there are attacks on minorities. Majority of people oppose bloodshed and violence. But during the time of attacks on minorities, fear of being harmed and death makes them silent. This is the current condition in our nation and we should come out from this," he added.
Human rights activist Harsha Mander, who also presented a session, said, "Compassion is the trademark of Christianity. But now the situation is such that others should have compassion towards the Christians. At the same time, the compassion among Christians is slowly decreasing. Their own brothers and sisters are suffering from attacks in various parts of nation but the members of the community are not helping them voluntarily," he said.
"Secondly, the society is completely silent on violence. The reasons for their silence are fear, the 'I don’t care' attitude and the thought that 'mob violence does not affect me'. These reasons always help those with hatred to easily spread violence. So the civil society should wake up and act promptly," he advised.
Roy Castelino, trustee of Sandesha Foundation, Lancy D’Cunha, leader, Catholic organisation were present. Fr Nelson D'Almeida, director, Sandesha welcomed the dignitaries and the guests.