The step taken by DSE to solve “educational” issues is a wrong precedent. In recent days, some readers wrote letters in Herald supporting the unwise step taken by the DSE. However, I strongly oppose such a narrow minded and sectarian approach taken by the DSE and I write this letter to express why such step was wrong.
1. One reader opined that when OBCs run to OBC MLAs to solve their problems, what is wrong in DSE calling Catholic MLAs?
It is to be noted here that such approach by OBCs or any other section of the society itself is wrong. An elected representative upon being elected is supposed to represent his constituency and not any particular caste or creed. Unfortunately, since democracy in Goa and rest of the nation too is not yet vibrant, such things happen.
Also, when OBCs approach their MLAs, it is for their personal or community reasons like demanding more reservations etc.
But DSE’s task is more noble and wider. Do only Catholic students study in DSE’s institutions? That is not the case!
2. The Education Dept. has rejected the permission for new HSS as there are existing HSS in those areas. Issues such as education cannot be solved through such communal tactics. The Secretary of the DSE, Fr Zefferino, needs to realize that when he sits on the Chair of DSE’s Secretary, he steps into the shoes of a school authority and does not merely remain a priest. If he or the DSE really feel that grave injustice has been meted out towards them, why don’t they approach the Courts?
3. When DSE invites MLAs on basis of their religious affiliation, what is the difference between DSE and right-wing elements? Education is not an issue where communal cards should be played. The Church in Goa has at times taken a sectarian and narrow-minded approach, one may however disagree. An example of the Konkan Railway agitation is enough.
