PONDA: Amid growing tensions over social media posts that hurt religious sentiments, residents of Ponda have suggested the establishment of inter-religious committees to maintain social harmony. The proposed committees would guide youths who may be carried away in posting objectionable content on social media, aiming to tackle such issues before they escalate into untoward incidents. Tensions have been observed in areas like Farmagudi, Usgao, and Bethora, and the Ponda police have deployed additional personnel in sensitive areas and at police outposts.
For the past two days, locals have been gathering at the Ponda police station in protest, raising slogans and demanding action against individuals who allegedly hurt religious sentiments. The Ponda police have detained a total of fourteen people, including minors, for inquiry in connection with the incident. On Friday, the Collem locals also gathered at their local police station to protest against a derogatory comment online. The protests and tensions have prompted locals to call for proactive measures to prevent the escalation of such issues.
Social worker Viraj Sapre emphasised the need for inter-religious committees to address and resolve such conflicts, providing counselling and guidance to avoid future instances of derogatory posts.
Vishal Fadte, another Ponda local, said, “Social media should not be misused to hurt religious sentiments. Everyone must bear in mind that religious issues are sensitive and so, must not comment on each other to hurt religious sentiments.”
According to Sandeep Parkar, if one’s religious sentiments are hurt, a police complaint can be filed to take action. However, a committee of all religious leaders and social workers are essential to guide youth to refrain from posting derogatory material online, and to maintain unity among society, he stressed.
Police officials mentioned that peace committees and meetings have been held in the past to promote understanding and peaceful coexistence during festival celebrations.
