Goa has been the epitome of peace and tranquility. It’s the home of religious harmony and symbol of unity in diversity for as long as people can remember. However, the recent spate of events have cast the spotlight on the state and created unnecessary tension among people of Goa.
Certain mischievous elements tried to create communal discord by vandalising places of religious importance. Despite all such provocative incidents the people from all religious communities have shown exemplary patience and have refrained from taking any retaliating action.
The national mood of hatred and incidents of mob lynchings fuelled by gau rakshaks and anti-minority elements adds to the apprehension in the state. Hate speeches and provocative remarks made against minorities at a religious convention near Ponda are a danger and an attempt being made to divide Goan society on the basis of religion.
The recent protest by Borda Raia parishioners against the kabrastan near Christian cemetery have hurt the sentiments of Muslims. Christian priests standing up for the rights of Muslims were humiliated and not allowed to attend the meeting.
However, Archdiocese of Goa and Daman has contributed towards peace by condemning the incident at Sonsoddo and have called for communal understanding and peace among all the religious communities. Such approach to stand up for the rights of others should be appreciated by all the religious heads in promoting peace and harmony.
It should be concern of every peace loving citizen of Goa to participate in promoting communal harmony in the state. It is commonly accepted that interfaith dialogues and interfaith studies is the need of the hour and therefore should be promoted.
Last month, Students Islamic Organization (SIO) of Goa provided a wonderful example of communal harmony by organising ‘Being humane’ campaign in schools and colleges which focused on promoting universal brotherhood for establishing peace among human beings irrespective of geographical consideration.
At a time when such differences among the religious communities are on the rise, we as Goans must rise above hate and stay united like we have in the past, to ensure than this strong social fabric among Goans is not ripped off that has been sown over the years. It is the responsibility of everyone of us to work as a team to bring about radical change in the approach of people to restore a pleasant and peaceful atmosphere of Goa.
