Are a small group of intolerant people trying to take over the collective conscience of the country? Who has given them the power to sit on judgement over the others? And why is the society being a mute witness to their illogical thinking? Or have all of us got into the 'sab chalta hai' attitude - I shall only react when it were to happen to me or to the people who matter to me? It portends dangerous tendencies for the future.
At the first instance, it was Salman Rushdie who was prevented from participating in the recently conducted Literary Fest at Jaipur. And now, Taslima Nasreen has been prevented from attending a function at Calcutta. Where's the freedom of expression that's enjoyed by each and everyone in this country? The major political parties and the powers that be have been silent over taking a stand, perhaps, due to vote bank considerations in the approaching byelections in a few states. The miscreants seem to be making hay while the sun shines, nay taking advantage of the chink in their armour which is what cowards do to gain an upper hand.
While having said that, it's incumbent on the worthies who've a sizeable following amongst the masses, to temper their thoughts with maturity and compassion so as to avoid making statements that could hurt the others, however miniscule that population would be. They owe it to their followers and therefore, cannot afford to be flippant, derogatory or insensitive in their articulations!
I've no personal inclination or liking to the names mentioned above but what makes me sad is that wrong things are taking place in my fine country which is historically famed for its racial, cultural and religious tolerance since times immemorial!
And so, such acts of intimidation are just not on!!
At the first instance, it was Salman Rushdie who was prevented from participating in the recently conducted Literary Fest at Jaipur. And now, Taslima Nasreen has been prevented from attending a function at Calcutta. Where's the freedom of expression that's enjoyed by each and everyone in this country? The major political parties and the powers that be have been silent over taking a stand, perhaps, due to vote bank considerations in the approaching byelections in a few states. The miscreants seem to be making hay while the sun shines, nay taking advantage of the chink in their armour which is what cowards do to gain an upper hand.
While having said that, it's incumbent on the worthies who've a sizeable following amongst the masses, to temper their thoughts with maturity and compassion so as to avoid making statements that could hurt the others, however miniscule that population would be. They owe it to their followers and therefore, cannot afford to be flippant, derogatory or insensitive in their articulations!
I've no personal inclination or liking to the names mentioned above but what makes me sad is that wrong things are taking place in my fine country which is historically famed for its racial, cultural and religious tolerance since times immemorial!
And so, such acts of intimidation are just not on!!
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