The Sancoale incident is a recent example of how communal tensions can be created with small incidents and it does not need huge mob mobilization. It can be instigated through small acts of mischief, so volatile is the situation today. There is huge pressure on the law enforcing agencies as any action from them will be looked upon as communal. The politicians who should have played an important role in defusing these incidents, generally adopt a ‘wait and watch strategy’, as they do not want to hurt the religious sentiments of their voters.
So, the question remains –How is it possible for a handful of people to actually create communal tensions? The major reason is the trust deficit which has developed in the past few years. Definitely politics is a major factor and politicians are mostly responsible for it but, whether we like it or not we all are equally to be blamed for it.
As a Goan every individual takes pride in the fact that Goa is a peaceful state, then how is it possible that a small incident like this can actually disturb the communal harmony of the entire state.
Trust deficit is a major issue here, or else why did we assume that this particular incident is the opinion of the entire community? Did we speak to our neighbors who are of different faiths to know their opinion? Or did the people of the different faiths in the surrounding areas, come out and tell all, that these small mischief makers do not represent the community and we want action against any trouble makers, be it of any religion?
Mischief makers are constantly at work and it is the need of the hour that we all need to work together for a peaceful Goa, which we all have witnessed.
To start with, there are memories of Goans celebrating each others festivals. But our children who are adults now, have not witnessed these celebrations of festivals, which we celebrated together and which inculcated in us the sense of respect towards each other and also a bond of togetherness in the society. Have we tried to inculcate this bond of brotherhood among our children, if not we need to start immediately. Be it among neighbors or in our vaddos or in our schools and colleges.
Our religious centres need to be open to people of different faiths for friendly discussions, and to know more about each other’s faith.
Mohalla committees were a hit in Mumbai during the riots in the 90s. We can have these small groups in our vaddos, consisting of people from different faiths who meet regularly to discuss societal issues. We can boast of development and best infrastructure, but these cannot be termed as development if the society is not at peace, and a peaceful society is not possible without the help from the masses.
Lastly the government cannot remain a mute spectator always. A stern message needs to go out after every act which is aimed at disturbing peace in the society and if no action is taken or if action is delayed against the mischief makers, then definitely it will send a wrong message in the society.
I recall the fine words from Sadhguru “As long as we are divided in the name of religion, race, caste, gender and nationality, there can be no true success for humanity.”
