Protest in right spirit is need of hour - By Dr Vincent Alva



Dr Vincent Alva, Principal, Milagres College, Kallianpur

Do we have the right to protest? Yes. The Constitution of India in its Article 19, which is called key article, embodies ‘Seven Freedoms’. The first two freedoms mentioned give the citizen the right to protest. They are;

1. To freedom of speech and expression.

2. To assemble peacefully and without arms.

It is very clear that every citizen of this country has the right to protest against the injustice caused to him, to his community or to his fellow citizen provided he does this act peacefully, without disturbing others, without maligning the name of others and without causing a threat to law and order.

The constitution also states that “the right to join with fellow citizens in protest or peaceful assembly is critical to a functioning democracy.” Here the word peaceful assembly should be underlined. No one has the right to create raucous during a protest thus posing danger to the fellow citizen.

Should we seek prior permission from the legal authority for protest?

Yes. One needs to avail the prior permission to protest. A protest permit or parade permit is permission granted by a governmental agency for a demonstration to be held in a particular venue at a particular time. Failing to obtain a permit may lead to charges of parading without a permit. If one stages a protest without obtaining a prior permit, the legal authority has every right to book the person under law for not complying with the constitutional rights.

Should the person or the group targeted by protest be informed in advance regarding the protest?

Yes. It is the responsibility of the protester to inform the targeted person in writing through legal authorities. It is simply because when one is protesting against someone it doesn’t mean that the targeted person is at fault. As protesting is the protester’s right, protecting himself is the right of the targeted. It is illegal to protest against someone without prior information because every individual citizen has his own space for freedom and right for protection. It also might cause a threat to law and order.

Should there be a leader for protest?

Yes. It is mandatory for someone to lead the protest and get identified as a leader. It is because someone has to own the responsibility and accountability. A protest without a leader is equal to the flock of sheep without a Shepard.

Having said this, since a lot of discussion is going on in the media regarding the protest held at Shirva Church premises demanding justice for the untimely death of Fr Mahesh, I feel it is my duty to voice my opinion on the protest held since the protest was from the community I belong to, mainly against the Church of which I am a member. And also, most importantly it is my responsibility too to educate hundreds of ignorant people who were to a larger extent emotionally pulled towards the protest than drawn by conviction.

The protest held at the premises of Shirva Church shows that the crowd, or we can call it a mob since the protest was directionless, was keen in fighting for justice. As a responsible citizen, I too join in voicing my demand for justice over the tragedy that occurred.

Fr Mahesh D’Souza, no doubt, toiled selflessly for the institution he headed. He is dead and no more with us and it is equally painful for all those who admired his craftsmanship to digest the fact and to come to terms with the reality. Some go a step further by suspecting the death of Fr Mahesh as a foul play. It is in the nature of the human beings to doubt. But doubting also has two angles, i.e., 1. Doubt something with rationale. 2. Doubt something for the sake of doubting. I have nothing to say about it since I respect the freedom of individuals.

But the turn the protest took subsequently shows that it is easy to call for a protest but it is not that easy to stick to the principles for which the protest was called for. My serious concern is in the question – whether anybody- so called leaders seriously contemplated over the protest and its consequences or took the leadership enthused by the maddening litheness of the crowd gathered? If it is the second one true to a great extent, it is the failure of the leadership that caused the chaos, which could have been suavely avoided otherwise.

I appreciate the energy behind the protest but depreciate the taste behind it. I appreciate the unity of the crowd, but I question their integrity.

In the Church, we have beautiful leadership setup wherein even the laity is given the authority to lead the congregation. But as I see it is the failure of lay leadership that created raucous in front of the church on the evening of All Souls Day. We can always demand for justice and it is our right which no one can question. But the protocol demands that the democratically chosen leaders to approach the authority and demand for a justification. If the authority fails to give a sound justification, the leaders have every right to call for a protest after informing the concerned through proper channel. One against whom the mob protests he/she can exercise his/her freedom of speech to speak or not to speak to the crowd. Because one person can discuss the matter with the delegation and not with the mob. Needless to repeat that the protest cannot be spontaneous. It has to be diligently organised with prior permission.

Can the church premises be a place for the public protest? Technically speaking a public protest cannot be held at a private place. The leaders will have to take the permission not only for the protest but also for the place. Church premises, we presume, is a public property. But our presumption is wrong. There is an individual owner for that property. Still the laity protest by the parishioners inside the church premises can be justified to a certain extent. But a parishioner belonging to a different parish or a person belonging to a different place, though he is in unison with the cause, ceases the right to enter the property belonging to a different church. If he/she does it is considered as gross violation of law and one can be booked for entering the private property without permission. In the protest that took place at Shirva, there were outsiders in large numbers. The legal authority would have made the leaders, if any, accountable if any untoward incident had taken place. There was every possibility of the occurrence of such incident because it was the mob which gathered. To understand what I am trying to say, one should know the distinction between a crowd and a mob. Crowd means a group of people gathered with a purpose. Mob is a large crowd of people especially one that may become violent or cause trouble.

It is the right of those persons against whom the protest is called for to take the legal protection because the person against whom the protest is staged has the duty to inform the legal authority regarding this. There will be a demand by the protesters and the authority has the duty to give statements and not judgements to the public. One can, including the legal authority, give clarification and not justice. Law has its own course to validate the matter before pronouncing the judgement.

When one allows emotions to overpower the common-sense there is every possibility for the emergence of anarchy. The same thing happened during the protest at Shirva. The mob was not in any mood to listen to the statements made by the church authority or the police authority. When one demands for justice, one also has the duty to listen to what the authorities say. It did not happen just because it was an unorganised protest. Mob went on shouting slogans against the church authority and the police authority. Again, if one thinks that he/she can shout slogans impromptu, it is a gross aberration on one’s part. Even the slogans shouted are accountable and leader should own the accountability. That day mob went on shouting unparliamentary slogans towards the church authority humiliating both, the person and the entire church. One may have the anger boiling within, but he/she does not have the right to humiliate a person. This is the best example of an unorganised protest. The adults used the children to shout such slogans and endorsed the action publicly. Shame on this act and those who shouted such slogans. They have not only defamed the protesters but the entire community they belonged to.

There is a limit for everything. The moment one crosses the limit, it becomes a cause for lawlessness. The cowardice act of the protesters was so visible that they went to the extent of deflating the tyre of the car belonging to the bishop of Udupi diocese. Further the mob went on deviating from the main issue. The suicide issue was pushed to the periphery for some time at least and some among the mob started slapping allegations on the church authority in front of the media blaming that their attitude towards the deceased is the reason for the death. In a protest, an individual does not have the right to make this statement publicly. instead they will have to record it in the memorandum to be handed over to the appropriate authority. This act deserves condemnation.

Here the mob completely rejected the statement given by the Superintendent of Police. It is nothing but a direct allegation on the police system and their duties. If one does not know what all are the guidelines to be followed by the police department in the suicide case before lowering the body from the noose and after sending the body for post mortem, the course of investigation, one should read the ‘Karnataka State Police Manuel’ Chapter 35, rule no 1374 to 1396 and also section 174 in CRPC – The Code of Criminal procedure, 1973. Along with it one also needs to read the Doctor’s Manuel –Department of Forensic Medicine and ToxicologyJawaharlal Institute of Post-Graduate Medical Education and ResearchInstitute of National Importance, Govt.of IndiaPuducherry, India, Chapters 6 and 7, pg no – 13-21. This will clear all the doubts we have in mind before calling something foul. But who will have the patience to read such stuff? Many only have the time to listen to the gossip and act insane.

Innocence has a justification but ignorance does not. it is said “ignorance has no excuse.” It also does not mean that every person in the mob will have the wisdom. It is the duty of the leaders to educate the people gathered there and speak the truth to them. If the leaders fail in their duty the mob fails which will give way to all sorts of chaos. Whom shall we blame – mob or the leaders? In my opinion it is the leaders.

Let the truth prevail and may the God-fearing Catholic community not become a prey to the wolves in the garb of sheep. Catholic Church has experienced many ups and downs in the past. The spirit of Catholicism is so strong that the Church has bounced back more vibrantly. Justice is what everyone demands. Only law can give justice. We need to have faith in the law because only because of law we live happily. The course of justice buys time. The statement by Benjamin Franklin still holds good. “It is better 100 guilty persons should escape than that one innocent person should suffer”.

Lastly, fight for justice but let the fight not be malicious. Be sincere in your fight “for as thou urgest justice, be assured thou shalt have justice, more than you desir’st” – William Shakespeare.

  

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Comment on this article

  • Joseph, Udupi

    Tue, Nov 12 2019

    The article is interesting on the academic point of view but it does not address the core issue. The basic concepts i.e justice delayed is justice denied is not touched at all and also the aphorism - Not only must Justice be done; it must also be seen to be done does not find a place anywhere.
    When people were speaking in hush hush tones and so many messages were circulating around, the diocesan authorities must have woken up and at least issued a press statement or announced during the Sunday service giving an update, perhaps this incident would not have happened. It is the deep silence of the shepherds appears to have aroused the people's speculations which triggered as fire on that fateful day. The matter could have been clarified in the diocesan fortnightly too. The communications or speeches on both days were not convincing at all angering the people further. The author appears to be beating around the bush skipping the the core issue as it is understood that he too is attached to a Diocesan institution lest he face their fury hence the need to exercise utmost caution.
    Satyameva Jayate.

    DisAgree Agree [7] Reply Report Abuse

  • JNB, Bejai,Mangalore

    Sun, Nov 10 2019

    It totally depends on where you or I stand,

    When I stand on victims side and appealing for justice most likely I would not go to reading what constitution says,I only fight for justice and truth no politics or me personal benefits,status or my (job) security ,even you do same thing and did it earlier if I am not mistaken.
    e.g: when a lawyers bull killed by a poor farmers bull in bull-fight : Lawyer asks farmer* compensate with his new bull and Rs.10000 mantaly damage caused for losing his favorite bull.
    *When case reverse Farmer says 'mistake became while mentioning actually my bull killed by you bull' then lawyer says "I need to check 'Book of Law' and according to law you can be compensated"

    When I stand for otherside, victim or who is protesting on behalf of victim or deceased ,I would ask indirectly to read what constitution says and follow it.

    DisAgree [3] Agree [25] Reply Report Abuse

  • Naveen kulshekar, Mangalore

    Sun, Nov 10 2019

    Abov article is well written can you publish it in konkani so that those who not know English can read read and understand

    DisAgree [34] Agree [6] Reply Report Abuse

  • John Pascal Britto, Shirva

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Yes Lavina, it is unfortunate that some learned people amongst us keeping themselves away from demanding justice fearing for their status. Are we really dumbfounded to the tragedy that occurred in our church or they are made to feel that it is one of the incidents attracts not much attention? If a layman finds it difficult to prepare his/her mind to accept this tragedy of a catholic priest committing suicide which is regarded as one of the unforgivable SINs as per the Holy Bible, how come our Religious Orders have accepted this easily by keeping mum? It is being given to understand that Fr. Mahesh was always advising his schoolchildren especially the 10th class not to resort to the suicidal tendency. The main question that remains to be answered is the cause of his death.
    The truth can not be hidden for a long time. The entire Catholic community is praying for their beloved young priest's soul no matter whichever church/region they belong to.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [50] Reply Report Abuse

  • Jessie D Souza, kemman

    Sun, Nov 10 2019

    I urge all those who seek `truth and justice' to resort to fasting and prayers. Shirwa parishioners to hold communal prayers till justice is done. Let us stay united in prayers, if other means pose as threat to the unity.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [9] Reply Report Abuse

  • Rudolf Rodrigues, Mumbai

    Sun, Nov 10 2019

    I would urge you to see our country's position in the "GLOBAL HUNGER INDEX" and then talk about "FASTING"!!

    DisAgree [2] Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • Rudolf Rodrigues, Mumbai

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Your article is very enlightening about the procedure to protest; but, here the reasons were compelling for an outburst from the laity in the total failure of the superiors to inform the public about the various developments on this tragic incident of the mysterious death of very good priest!

    Just see around what example the politicians, top level beaurecrats, industrialists, law enforcement agencies are setting in an environment of rampant corruption and shutting up whistle blowers with muscle power and those who fight for justice!

    Just recently, a mob of lawyers attacked policemen, burnt vehicles, created havoc outside Tees Hazari court just for a trivial reason! If this is what people in position & power do what can you expect from the common man who is already overburdened with so many problems & when he is pushed to the walls & not getting justice from the religious superiors whom they look up for guidance & trust them!

    DisAgree [3] Agree [42] Reply Report Abuse

  • James Fernandes, Barkur/Chicago

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    "People who are not rowing the boat have the time to rock the boat." Sartre.

    DisAgree [3] Agree [21] Reply Report Abuse

  • Henry rodrigues, Dubai

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Do you think the priest are a public property ??? From when did that happen . Please stop brainwashing ppl to create more nuisance . Its really sad that the people are going against the bishop and the priest. Remember one thing once the verdict is out you guys will definitely feel guilty and these actions will be a scar within the community.

    DisAgree [21] Agree [28] Reply Report Abuse

  • Roshan Braganza, Mumbai

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    public place is people's property (including priest and laity ) , so when large group gathers its not private , but public event. So yes people have right to protest at church .

    DisAgree [11] Agree [77] Reply Report Abuse

  • Roshan Braganza, Mumbai

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    public place is people's property (including priest and laity ) , so when large group gathers its not private , but public event. So yes people have right to protest at church .

    DisAgree [12] Agree [42] Reply Report Abuse

  • PABLO, DXB

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Finally some enlightening Article and hope that everyone learn out of it and don't take matters out of control going forward. It was disheartening to see how people disrespected the Bishop and well reputed priest Fr Denis.Hope the truth comes out quickly so that the priests who are going through false allegations and bad mouthing get a sigh of relief. They don't deserve this !

    DisAgree [66] Agree [28] Reply Report Abuse

  • MF, Mumbai

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    No law is above God's Law !

    In History, Christianity is flourished due to the example of Jesus disciples and his folks lead their life in simplicity and main purpose was spreading good news of God's Kingdom. Gradually in the name of serving, emerged the need of Hospitals, Educational Institutions etc which is real need as well as it is serving the purpose till date for the betterment of society. Things are going out of control when the basic needs convert into standards of living.

    Today's Bible reading based on cleaning the temple of God. Jesus saw people selling sheep and cattle which is required to offer sacrifice in temple. Jesus got disturb as the market place is inside the vicinity of temple. At present time too, we see most of our recreation halls, institutions are inside the vicinity of Church compound. Personally I feel disturbed when I am praying in Church I hear music from Hall !

    The Shirva incidents purely is of emotional outburst. Could any of our Catholic leadership organization taken initiative to ask justice to late Rev. Father ? VOICE FOR JUSTICE is against the Law of God ? Here not to prove whether it is suicide or murder, it is purely based on the reason behind untimely death and our responsibility toward our own Priest. Some hesitate to join to ask justice just because it started from the voice of the common people, not from the religious heads ? If so eradicate the divisions between two, join in unity as one congregation and go ahead to ask justice. However bitter the truth is, we have to accept that and at the same time we Christians are forgivers.

    From this incident I personally feel its JESUS way to clean evil and purify his HOLY PLACE. JESUS IS SET TO CLEAN HIS TEMPLE FROM COMMERCIAL MARKET PLACE TO HIS FATHERS HOLY HOUSE. Jesus himself tired of the things happening today specially in his name, I am sure he is going to change lot many things to purify/clean his HOLY TEMPLE and FOLKS.

    DisAgree [8] Agree [71] Reply Report Abuse

  • Mangalurian, Mangaluru

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Almost every second comment seems to repeat the words: "demand for justice".

    So far as I understand, the justice is provided by the judiciary.

    As only a provisional post-mortem report has been obtained (as per the SP), the judiciary will not entertain a request to provide any judgment.

    There are further reports that need to be completed (by the relevant labs), and on completion of all the formalities will the matter go to a court...

    ... IF - and ONLY IF - the reports indicate that it was not a suicide.

    Otherwise, there is no judgement, as there is nothing to judge!

    So, what "demand for justice" are the people taking about?

    Any clarification from the justice-demanders will certainly illuminate the many slow-thinkers like myself.

    DisAgree [47] Agree [12] Reply Report Abuse

  • Lewis, Udupi

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Looks like you have no update on this Incident.

    DisAgree [6] Agree [48] Reply Report Abuse

  • Gration DSouza, Modankap/ Abu Dhabi

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    If you are having updates why aren't you not giving those proofs to police. Why just blaming the church authority?

    DisAgree [14] Agree [11] Reply Report Abuse

  • Richard L D Souza, Kulshekar/Bangalore

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Very very apt question/suggestion. SP in Public address told Police Department ever ready to accept any complaint(meaning) information about this case to investigate

    DisAgree [2] Agree [8] Report Abuse

  • Richard L D Souza, Kulshekar/Bangalore

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Thanks for Vincy, Pambur for enlightening article. Though Principal of College he has elucidated matter like legal luminary. Justice can be provided by Judiciary based upon "Clinching Evidence". Hearsay, assumption, doubt is of no use in deciding case.

    DisAgree [27] Agree [10] Reply Report Abuse

  • John Pascal Britto, Shirva

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Dr. Alva, I really appreciate your wisely written article and thereby trying to educate illiterate brothers and sisters in Christ. You made them know our constitution, law, code of criminal procedures, accountability and responsibility of every catholic as a citizen of this great country. Further, you have taught them what is mob and crowd, integrity and unity. You have enlightened them to know public protest and private property.

    Please allow me to touch another side of the coin. Since three weeks from Fr. Mahesh's mysterious death (11th October) till 2nd November 2019, no statement had come from Church authorities. On 3rd November 2019, Bishop of Udupi Diocese had given a statement that Fr. Mahesh committed suicide due to his personal reasons. Also, it is understood that Fr. Mahesh's parents never informed the Chuch authorities not to proceed further with the case but it is true that they do not wish to go ahead by themselves due to Fr.Mahesh's father's health condition. But it is their desire to get justice for their son through church authorities.
    If God-fearing community gather in the church for Sunday obligation mass (on Saturday evening) and later demands a statement from the church authority collectively regarding registering of a case with the local police station which was not done by the church committee, do you call them mob? Let me remind you even well-organized protests have gone violent in the past.
    It was not the intention of Shirva parishioners to target any priest or Bishop. They are simply demanding justice and furious over the silence maintained by church authorities. So many unanswered questions in their minds led them to have doubt about mysterious death by so-called suicide. Shirva parishioners wanted to know background stories from the church authorities including the threat posed to Fr. Mahesh and drugs-related issues. Every Catholic has the right to demand for justice as one of the catholic priests died under mysterious circumstance

    DisAgree [10] Agree [129] Reply Report Abuse

  • Lavina, Shirva

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    As you said.. Mr Alva has touched only one side of the coin. If he had taken some initiative earlier..I would have appreciated this article. Being community leader it was his duty. In 2008 when church attack happened.. Mr. Alva was in protest in Manglore ( may be leading also) and there were several mob incidents and lati charge... did he or church took responsibility? In 2013 too he had protested against BD attack on Prayer groups.. n now giving gyan.

    When church celebrates..fest... do they send special in invite onto other parish people? When they offer money...do they tell...sorry...you r outsider... cant donate...no offerings pls. NO... so why now this insider n outsider.. there was no lati charge or any attack on person. So this article doesn't make any sense for me.

    DisAgree [4] Agree [87] Reply Report Abuse

  • Yashwanth, Mangalore

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Well said!!

    DisAgree Agree [18] Reply Report Abuse

  • Valerian Dsouza, Udupi / Mumbai

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Very informative and educating article.
    But the issue is most of the protestors are not aware of the rights and rules; I doubt even the leaders being aware.
    Too much of awareness can become a hindrance to agitate against injustice.
    However it's important to be consistent in demanding justice so that wrong doers don't become so brazen! Awakened citizens make a good civic society.

    DisAgree [5] Agree [36] Reply Report Abuse

  • Manohar, Udupi.

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    This enlightening article is good for the readers of DW.
    Do the mob members read this article so that they reform?

    The protest at Shirva church is the example of people playing the emotions without leadership and accountability.

    DisAgree [65] Agree [15] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ray, Mangalore

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Let us all Pray for the soul of Fr. Mahesh D’Souza and May his soul REST IN PEACE.

    "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." The Good News: Don't forget that we receive forgiveness, and, in turn, should be kind and forgiving to those around us. "The Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive."

    DisAgree [40] Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • John Tauro, M'lore

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    The holy scriptures also say “confess your sins one to another.” Of course if the sinner confesses (to the victim or the offended person) and truly repents, he/she can be/ will be forgiven.” But if you are not aware who has offended you or if the guilty attempts to hide his/her guilt and is not ready to confess or to accept his/her guilt how can you forgive him/her? In such case it becomes necessary for the victim or the offended person to find out the offender or the guilty person.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [7] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ray, Mangaluru

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Mr. John Tauro,
    You do not know exactly how Fr. Mahesh Dsouza has died. You all have opinions not the facts. If your opinion is a foul play, then get evidence. Name the person of interest and give a petition against him and collect the evidence. The Court needs evidence not opinions. Do not blame anyone with fake news and rumors. Wait for the inquest report and the coroner’s report.

    DisAgree [23] Agree [4] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ray, Mangalore

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Hi Francis, Wilma, and Jacintha

    Have you ever been to court. You need to go through proper channel and follow the rules. You cannot ask justice without filing a petition against any individual or organization.
    The protesters were using abusive language against the church leaders. If you guys have the capacity or guts to fight for justice then use the justice system. File the petition against those whom you speak. Not just shouting slogans and using abusive languages against the church leaders and disrupting several church events of the people who have already planned earlier such as: Marriage, funeral services, baptism, mass services, and other prayers. You are all saying you need justice without using your thoughts and obeying the laws.

    DisAgree [61] Agree [19] Reply Report Abuse

  • Mangalurian, Mangaluru

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Well-written article. Thank you.

    "There is a limit for everything. The moment one crosses the limit, it becomes a cause for lawlessness." says the author.

    I fully agree with the point.

    Nature has intended, it appears, that teenagers need to rebel against those who are seemingly on some pedestal, as part of their growing up.

    But here we have grown-ups who seem to believe that they can rebel, and that too, north-India style.

    I am ashamed.

    DisAgree [51] Agree [10] Reply Report Abuse

  • Francis Martis, Secaucus

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    First of all, strike or protest in large numbers without permission is wrong.
    However, the Incident that happened here is being hushed and pressed down by politicians,
    this incident must be investigated thru CBI. This one certainly demands .
    People are frustrated for Police and Politicians turning on a blind eye.
    Why there is no action in the investigation ?? This is kind of fooling people.
    The result so far is a big Zero by the Police.

    DisAgree [4] Agree [37] Reply Report Abuse

  • Joshua, Karkala

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    All literate ppl of Shirva are outside and only a small illiterate, jobless people have protested without any base attacking religious leaders.

    I wish they knew the church protocols. This is very shocking and unusual case for the whole diocese and the legal authorities are taking care of it. Who are we to point fingers at them. Fr. Mahesh was our loved priest as well as other priests too. They too have left their homes . It's shameful to blame game without knowing the law. What can you expect from this hooligans.

    Justice is required and has to be out. But we need to think wisely if we need our church and priests.

    DisAgree [50] Agree [11] Reply Report Abuse

  • Michael Dsouza, Mulki

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Whoever responsible for the death of Fr.Mahesh directly or indirectly note the following.

    As I remember the Eligy to Fr. Mahesh by a well known dignitary in daiji platform.

    Quote is "The perfume of whole Arabia will not sweeten your hands.You will bow down your heads with shame.
    He lived like Christ, died like a saint a martyr .
    They may escape the law but the curse of blood will be on them to the generations

    DisAgree [2] Agree [45] Reply Report Abuse

  • Francis, Udupi

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    I appreciate Shirva people for the protest. This is an emotional outbursts. Human errors might have taken place .
    It is easy to point out protesters mistakes but they too have the right to raise questions when the authorities are silent.
    Fr.Mahesh a noble soul did so much good for the people that's why noone accepts his death. He served mount rosary n milagres parish prior to Shirva. He is peoples priest. Please don't explain about constitutional rights at this juncture. Raise your voice for the justice. God forbid.You will know the pain when you loose your loved one.

    DisAgree [13] Agree [158] Reply Report Abuse

  • ZJN, Karkala

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Very well said!!! Our so called leaders / intellectuals didn’t bother to raise their voice constitutional way and moved on as if it’s like any other incident! At least those who were less aware of constitutional rights dare to raise their voice against injustice.

    DisAgree [1] Agree [34] Reply Report Abuse

  • Stevan Machado, Shirva

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Truly said Francis , Udupi
    It’s really heartening when I listen Fr Mahesh’s death .
    He has done tremendous work towards Don Bosco , Shirva
    He had future plans and dreams on Don Bosco
    When he visited Kuwait last year he was speaking about Don Bosco only
    A truly educational visionary no more
    Justice to be served on his death
    Culprits should be punished .

    DisAgree Agree [50] Reply Report Abuse

  • Veronics, shirva

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Very beautifully said. At least people who staged without permission need to think now what they did was wrong. No one can take law in to their hands. It was not a protest. It looked like people came to fight with the priests. All had malicious intentions.These hooligans do not have any respect and don't know how to respect.

    I seriously feel those who protested without permission should be taken to task and should be punished severely

    DisAgree [135] Agree [19] Reply Report Abuse

  • Judef, Udupi

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    A well-written article, I especially liked the mention that church has bounced back vibrantly in time of crisis. The same will happen in case of Fr. Mahesh death too. May the good Lord guide our hearts and mind to see truth and justice.

    DisAgree [71] Agree [15] Reply Report Abuse

  • Jyothi, Shirva

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Dont try to cover the culprits which is very dangerous in the process of Beliefs of people. If it happened to your loved once, you will know the value

    DisAgree [4] Agree [49] Reply Report Abuse

  • YOGI THUNTA, MANGALURU - NEAR PUMPWELL CIRCLE

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Why justice denied for particular community which never complained about anything ! but now the limits are crossed ! Even nowadays people are not interested to go for the priesthood ! Need of the hour is the probe to be cleared with sincerity which is favor or against but truth should come out. Dont try to cover the carpet on culprits which is very dangerous in the process of Beliefs of people.

    Even no one has raised against the TIPU Jayanthi celebrations as he butchered thousands of Christians which no fault of theirs.

    DisAgree [5] Agree [76] Reply Report Abuse

  • Chris, Mumbai

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    If leader is truthful and ideal then there wouldn’t be corruption and goalmal in this universe

    DisAgree [5] Agree [66] Reply Report Abuse

  • Jyothi, Udupi

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Read article properly. How you can say leaders corrupt or not truthful.?dont doubt or malign someone without proof..

    DisAgree [14] Agree [8] Reply Report Abuse

  • ZJN, Karkala

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    The religious leaders of India are extremely lucky that people have lots of patience & respect to their every word! This is one of the rare instance where I believe parishioners/well wisher's patience was tested beyond and they acted when concerned authorities 'neglected' peoples sentiment and emotions. Every 'change' is resisted at the beginning and for sure criticized to the core to demoralize it and that exactly happening here as the so called 'religious leaders' not used to 'questioning culture'.

    DisAgree [5] Agree [79] Reply Report Abuse

  • juliana, udupi

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Anybody with a human heart will cry for his miserable death. These people are not so educated to know the adverse effects of protests. Thank God it ended gracefully.

    DisAgree [11] Agree [71] Reply Report Abuse

  • Sunil, Udupi

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    If everything goes as per our constitution and law and order then sure Fr. Mahesh should not commit suicide . Sumthing happen wrong with him in our socity, thats why he commit suicide. In this situation people are right to protest .

    DisAgree [3] Agree [107] Reply Report Abuse

  • Peace, Karkala

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Thank you Dr Alva for an enlightening article....and i hope those responsible for the chaos and mob protest will read and understand the legal aspects..and protest peacefull with proper permissions....They need to realise that screaming, circulating gossip and insulting those in authority will not take them anywhere, in the eyes of God and Law! Protest by all means for a great cause but do it with dignity and respectfully and do not let others from our peace loving community put their heads down in shame...

    DisAgree [89] Agree [16] Reply Report Abuse

  • Wilma, Shirva

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    I think you live in the fear of other communities. Who live as a human will keep their heads up.For your kind information all communities from shirva came forward and sorrowful in his death.

    DisAgree [11] Agree [70] Reply Report Abuse

  • Mariette, Mangalore

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Thank you for your timely and enlightening article.. It's the need of the hour.

    DisAgree [109] Agree [34] Reply Report Abuse

  • Alwyn, Kallianpur

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Today's world, it is very difficult to trust anyone.

    All Leaders (Political / Spiritual) are trying to create good Image in today's society. They will not fight for Justice even they know the reality.

    DisAgree [5] Agree [125] Reply Report Abuse

  • Ray, Mangalore

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Hi Alwyn,

    When you say we cannot trust anyone, you mean we cannot trust you too.
    Jesus said " let him who is without sin cast the first stone".

    DisAgree [15] Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • Lewis, Udupi

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Why you didn't fight for Justice?

    DisAgree [16] Agree [191] Reply Report Abuse

  • Raj, Mangalore

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Very good question!! Where are the other principal of schools and colleges? Why they didn’t protest???

    DisAgree [7] Agree [138] Reply Report Abuse

  • Vilma, Kallianpur

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Fr Mahesh was people's priest .if people have come down to protest there is a strong reason that there were no answer from the so called leaders.We r peace loving community n if we have come out to protest it's that the reason we want justice for the humble soul u couldn't know how much pain we have in r heart for this great loss .Due respect to the law ,we also know that how it works n get corupted .People like us getting justice on its own is not possible.Peopke of all community have come for protests bit sone r happy to be in good books n maintaining their image or else sitting at home with a cup of tea n reading newspaper or watching news n commenting that this n that shouldn't happen or it should happen in a certain way.Thank u sir for spending time to make remind us tge laws seems that u have spent hours please do egnligten us in advance how to seek justice if not got in time .n do it peacefully as u say.I would really like to know

    DisAgree Agree [25] Reply Report Abuse

  • Wilma, Shirva

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Sir Alva you written very well and I hope who protested also have idea of constitutional right.But as per our community priest will serve us leaving behind his family and considering us as his family.When our Bishops and head of church seeking financial support from parishioners for betterment of parish they have full right to question the heads what happened in house and why an active priest without leaving any evidence committed suicide. When their question was not answered about the matter only they went to protest.Incase you die such a death also someone loved you respected you will protest.Here love and respect marched not constitutional guidelines. Hope you understand our hearts that cried for innocents death.

    DisAgree [4] Agree [127] Reply Report Abuse

  • Jacintha, Udupi

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Well said Wilma. Those who respected Fr. Mahesh only know the pain. Others are busy with the law & constitutional rights. It is easy to talk diplomatically but difficult to support the truth.

    DisAgree [5] Agree [109] Reply Report Abuse

  • Praveen, Bangalore

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    @wilma, Do you know how did you respect priest in your protest? Your loving children have called the priest saying Kutta bagh Gaya.

    Is that the way you teach your children? I am not against your protest. But don't spoil the peace of living priest if you truly trust God.

    Let there be love on Fr. Mahesh but don't allow to be a curse. I really cried and prayed a lot for Fr. Mahesh and his family. But I am really disappointed by the way you all showed your love. Difficult to accept your mistakes but ponder over it please.

    DisAgree [25] Agree [14] Reply Report Abuse

  • Francis, Shirva/UK

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    He is fighting in good way by writing informative articles, by doing prayers and waiting for the updates from the police, to find out the truth and reason behind the unexpected death. You better to follow him.

    DisAgree [20] Agree [5] Reply Report Abuse

  • Sunil, Mangalore

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Justice in right spirit is need of hour

    DisAgree [5] Agree [95] Reply Report Abuse

  • Rion, Udupi

    Fri, Nov 08 2019

    Most of the leaders now a days are either influenced by political parties and vested interest. no one is available to raise voice against the wrongdoing unless they get benefit. Even though one out of hundred is ready to lead, then he will be pressurized and then give up. In this situation everyone act like a leader. There is nothing wrong!!

    DisAgree [6] Agree [153] Reply Report Abuse

  • Victor, Mangalore

    Sat, Nov 09 2019

    Very good article. He had covered leaders responsibility and as a member of the Church our responsibility as well as our limitations. I also need justice but on that day their behavior was not good.

    DisAgree [9] Agree [2] Reply Report Abuse

  • Edward Menezes, Shirva.

    Mon, Nov 11 2019

    Dr. Vincent Alva, am sure you have done a lot of research on this artical any way it's a good experience to you to write a artical on a sensitive issue, since you have expressed the fact I feel it's an very good eye opener for those who have a positive thinking. Wish you good and looking for more effective articals from you Sir.

    DisAgree [2] Agree [1] Reply Report Abuse


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Title: Protest in right spirit is need of hour - By Dr Vincent Alva



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