Opinion | Editorials
Those who preach politics of religious hatred have no right to be at the helm
Even as India, the world's largest functioning democracy, prepares for elections a new trend seems to be enveloping the country: the politics of division along religious lines.
- Gulf News
- Published: 00:03 October 19, 2008
Even as India, the world's largest functioning democracy, prepares for elections a new trend seems to be enveloping the country: the politics of division along religious lines.
Being Indian has got absolutely nothing to do with an individual's religious beliefs but violence against the minorities has steadily scaled upwards in recent times.
It is no coincidence that such acts, which must be strongly condemned, are taking place as the country prepares to go to the polls. And those who are propagating this trend are hoping to cash in on a select votebank - making a political profit through religious polarisation.
Those who are orchestrating such acts have no right to speak on behalf of any religion, or alter the rich and diverse fabric of Indian civilisation. India was founded on tolerance and secularism. Those who preach any other alternative doctrine in the search for votes should not be given the right to govern.
More from Editorials
More from Opinions
Opinion Editor's choice
-
Racism shapes Israel's view of Iran
By Adel Safty, Special to Gulf News
If Tehran develops the bomb, it would deter Tel Aviv from attacking it, thus changing balance of power in the region
-
Egypt's revolution will succeed
By Mohamed ElBaradei
I hope to help groom the youth that triggered the uprising so they can take over the leadership of the country in the next election
-
It's time for Al Assad to step aside
By William Hague, Britain's Foreign Secretary
Those ordering the siege of Homs, shelling of Idlib and the torture of Syrian children need to be put on notice that they will be held to account
Your turn
