A debate on the number of holidays does warrant. However, such a debate should not lose sight of the deeper issues raised by Justice Kurian Joseph in his letter to the Chief Justice of India. The character of the letter of Justice Kurian is not of dissent or criticism, but a prophetic voice against the selective targeting of Christians in India since the BJP came to power. His letter gives expression to the frustrations and feelings of insecurity in the minds of minorities. Reading his letter deeper, we find no ‘tantrums’ against the highest court of law, but a respectful protest of a hurt man, against the immaculate silence of our ever eloquent Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the attacks on Christians by the hindutvavadis, including MPs, MLAs and even their relatives. We do have highest respect for the highest court of law in India, but at the same time we also expect the highest court to have highest degree of prudence to avoid fuelling the already burning fire of religious intolerance and selective targeting of communities. A serious debate is a welcome suggestion. Until it happens, let’s learn to respect the rights of every citizen and condemn the hate-spreading tactics of selfish fanatics. Indeed, for acche din, India needs to rise, introspect and rectify.
Bolmax Pereira, Quepem
