Mangalore: A Mistaken Identity and Mistaken Action - Dr V S Acharya


Mangalore: A Mistaken Identity and Mistaken Action - Dr V S Acharya

Exclusive Interview by Florine Roche
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore

Mangalore, Sep 17: Being the Home Minister of Karnataka Dr V S Acharya has been facing the heat that comes with the coveted Chair of Home Ministry, the second most important portfolio in the government. 

In the last 100 days of BJP rule it is the home ministry which has come under the scanner and scrutiny beginning with Padma  Priya case that jolted the new government in the very first month.

The recent attacks on the Christian places of worship have further compounded the matter and the fact that he hails from undivided South Kanara District has certainly put him in a tight spot. 

In an exclusive interview with FLORINE ROCHE of  Daijiworld.com  Dr Acharya tries to assuage the fears of the Christian Community and speaks about other related issues.

Q. Ever since you assumed office as Home Minister you have been facing many challenges….

A. It is most unfortunate that what happened last Sunday is not only least expected but also shocking.  The root cause is the illegal conversion and publication of material by New Life, which was obnoxious and hurtful to Hindu sentiments.  Instead of protesting against New Life, the mob has attacked the Christian places of worship.  It was wrong on their part to do so. 

Q. Are you saying that attack on the Monastery at Falnir was a mistaken identity to and justify the attack?

A. It was indeed a mistaken identity and mistaken action too and I am not justifying their actions.  The attackers should not have gone to attack the places of worship.  They should have given a complaint to appropriate authorities on these illegal conversions and hateful literature.

Q. But your government failed to respond in time which actually made Christians view your intentions with suspicion? 

A. I do agree whatever happened on Sunday and the next day was equally bad.  We were actually rushing to prevent any further damage.  But the irate mob had started attacking the policemen resulting in law and order problem.  Though I wanted to rush on Sunday itself, I could not come in the helicopter due to bad weather.  But soon after coming here we ensured that things have greatly improved.  People were convinced that the government was serious in punishing those who took law in their own hands. 

Q. It is for the first time the peace loving Christians have taken to streets to protest against last Sunday’s incident?

A. It was natural for them to be enraged because of the desecration of the statue and attacks on places of worship when Sunday prayers were going on.  But instead of going on a rampage they also should have exercised some restraint.  Reaction to the action was also extreme. 

Q. There has been a deluge of political leaders who are visiting Mangalore after the attack on places of worship and the subsequent violence?

A. Some people have taken advantage of this situation to bring some political pressure. 

Q. How is the situation as on today?  There are accusations that your government was lackadaisical in tackling the situation in Mangalore?

A. It is wrong to say that government has not done anything.  On the contrary despite it being an emotive issue, we have succeeded in bringing the situation under control.  In today’s meetings with the Bishop, priests and Christian leaders both in Mangalore and Udupi, some priests have acknowledged this fact and I am satisfied to some extent.

Q. What is the outcome of today’s meeting?

R. Catholics have promised us that they will ensure that a similar situation will not occur again.  Our assurance to them has been that everybody will be dealt with equanimity.  We will make sure   that whoever takes low in their hands, will be punished and Chief Minister has instructed the authorities to take suitable action against such elements. 

Q. Christians harbor a grouse that your government failed to condemn the attacks on the places of worship …..

A. We have categorically said from the very beginning and the Chief Minster has openly condemned these attacks without any reservations.  At the same time the government has to see the root cause of the problem also.  I agree initially we did not react because we wanted to come here and assess the situation personally. We are extremely sorry we could not come in time to avert the unfortunate incident of Monday. 

Q. Does this not reflect the failure of the intelligence since the attack last Sunday was carried out simultaneously and required pre-plan?

A. An accident cannot be predicted and similarly such meetings are done clandestinely and cannot be equated as intelligence failure. 

Q. The opposition is demanding a probe by sitting high court judge but your government has ruled it out. Why?

A. Judicial probe is ruled out because fortunately there has been no casualty or loss of life.  The whole fracas was due to some people taking law in their hands and there has been over reaction which vitiated the problem further.  The Cabinet will meet tomorrow to take stock of the situation.  A Principal Secretary of the government will look into the problem and we will get assistance from other stream of the police i. e the Higher ups to probe the matter.

Q. What is your assurance to the people of this region who are pained and disappointed by repeated communal disturbances in this district?

A. We will not spare any one who violates law.  For so many years in Mangalore people of all communities have been living peacefully and we want nothing but peace.

Q. Is it a co-incidence that the attack occurred on the last day of the BJP’s National  convention being held in Bangalore …

A. I think we cannot deduce anything else from it other than terming it as a co-incidence. But now I am happy that the matter is resolved within 2-3 days.  I am sorry that such an incident has happened during our government, which was nonetheless shocking for us.  I condemn it whole-heartedly. 

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  • naina, mangalore/usa

    Sat, Sep 27 2008

    Mr.Acharya,even very minute of the interview you look so relaxed. You supposed to be protect minoroties and you should be concerned, Your message is shamefull,you are still in deniel stageIi guess forever, instead being concerned.

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  • Shantaram Shetty, Udupi

    Wed, Sep 24 2008

    Dear Mr. Acharya, Please forgive these people's thoughts - they simply blame the BJP for the Bajrang Dal and they blame british for divorces, The people need to stop converting each other and live happily, after all God is one. Thank you for taking prompt action and the BJP is a good government, be careful with political views.

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  • Venu Bhandary, Puttur/Muscat

    Sat, Sep 20 2008

    If the Mangalore violence is really originated due to the publication of New life organization the chief minister or home minister should arrange meeting with the Christian Priests ,Muslim spiritual leaders along with Hindu spiritual leaders and clearly disclose all the printings and publications in front of them, verify the authenticity and collectively take an immediate action of banning the organization .

    Helpless BJP government. Got the administration on several years of hard work. congress built their monarchy on goondagiri.Thats why dividing the community or society is a 2minute game for them. They can not tolerate this present government because Karnataka was their strong base of southern India since several years.

     when ever there is communal riots next day these Leaders will appear with splendid dress touch the wounded, express their deep concern with tears and end of the day they will celebrate with their crew members on some 5 star hotel .Means for them it is” Victory”. Then a package will be released for the deceased and distribution responsibility will be given to those who are the nearest of the minister 50% will be fake identity ,real affected will be 10%.40%will be utilized to strengthen the party.

    Dawood Ibrahim is a good example of Congress fed baby. He grown up with care and he built his own kingdom under the safe roof of congress. Only India turned a difficult place for him during BJP government in Maharastra. Gradually situation changed, education level increased people are able to identify good and bad .This increased tension among congressmen. Now worry to gain back the administration, searching ways to establish. Terrorists tearing India, People in Kashmir burning Indian Flags because they need Pakistan on their top, eastern states almost filled with Bangladeshi insurgents, now this is the one strong community if violated success can be considered as 70%.There will not be surprise one day if India is observed in the Map with some other name. Only God can save India.

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  • Oliver Mark D' Souza , Bajpe-Mangalore/ Dubai

    Sat, Sep 20 2008

    Dear Thilak Shetty, Thank you for your honest words.May you and your family be blessed abundantly for standing by the Catholic community of Mangalore in their dire need. It is indeed a fact that Rev. Fr. Prashanth Madtha, former Principal Of St. Aloysius college and Fr. Leo , former Principal and Rector of St. Aloysius instituitions, have been helpful to students irrespective of their religion. I have witnessed the way Fr. Leo has trained the school outs in the technical training institute. This is just a small example. Not just in Mangalore or in Karnataka but throughout India Catholic priests,nuns and other religious brothers in particular have strived hard for the betterment of the society in general by teaching in schools ,colleges and serving in hospitals.

    I request all my Hindu brothers and sisters who have studied with us or who have studied in Catholic and convent schools and colleges to state their experiences. The Catholic community has worked with only one motive in mind i.e service.No doubt the Catholic community will continue its service to society but the pain we have experienced because of the ' Desecration of the Blessed Sacrament':attack on our prayer centres and the brutal way our sisters and people have been dealt by the police, is something hard to leave behind.Thank you dear Thilak shetty. You have really reminded me of my Aloysian days.May God Bless you.

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  • Nutan, Mangalore

    Sat, Sep 20 2008

    Dear Christopher, I know what my children deserve, because we have the capability to decide about our child’s future. You have got no right to comment on that. Better read my earlier comment properly. Probably you have read only a part of it.

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  • clarence miranda, mangalore

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Rolfie-Toronto/Melwin-Udupi, You guys are the creator of this Acharya. Melwin admits it, but Rolfie does not.

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  • K.Mulla, Bhatkal

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Dr.Acharya is a great scholer, diplomat, his enduring knowledge will defiantly help us in get back to normal life. Please don’t feel bad if a few comment on you wrongly, majority of people who know you respected you before, respecting you now and son in future.

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  • Rolfy, Kallianpur/Toronto

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Acharya Doctor, People can call u anything now, i will never forget you,when my mother was struggling for life, u saved her,despite knowing my family can not pay a penny, Forgive them, they dont know you, we people from UDUPI knows you.God bless you.

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  • melwin, udupi

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Dear bretherns. i was a supporter of bjp and thier ideals..i thougt they stood for development and wholeheartedly voted for thier party in the recent elections. but the incidents in mlore have opened my eyes..i dont think anyone wants development at the cost of thier survival.... its too big a price to pay for development.... The sooner we christians consolidate and vote enmasse to remove them the better would be for our community and for our democracy... we have to encourage our brethern's who are abraoad to come down during election to vote against them....We have to take voting during elections seriously... the future of our community is at stake....

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  • Michael Mendonca, Bombay/Sharjah

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Dear Fr. Max The Christians from UAE are in the process of getting a unified appeal to the PM and right now a signature campaign is going on. How can we stay calm. Independently we are voicing our concern and the collective UAE Chritian appeal will follow soon.

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  • Michael Mendonca, Bombay/Sharjah

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    By stating that it was mistaken identity the Minister is justifying the action of one community. If they had a problem then why didn't they follow the legal procedure. Why isn't the government openly saying that this action was illegal as they are saying conversion is illegal though unilaterally as if they are the custodians of all hindus.

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  • Christopher, Mangalore

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Ms. Nutan, Don't dare think to send your children to christian schools as ur children dont deserve.This is for your kind info.

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  • Shanta Desai, Goa

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Disturbing communal harmony is the basic purpose behind these acts. The BJP has resorted to this strategy even in the past, just before every election, all over India.

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  • Rolphy Almeida, Udupi/Bangalore

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Dear Gokul, how you continued in such a bad school for 11 years? You could not find any other better schools around? To substantiate your comments, in most of the Christian schools, colleges and hospitals the majority staff, faculty and students are from other religion please add this to your knowledge. I myself being a Christian could not get a seat in Christian school till 9th grade. I have studied in Adiudupi a Brahmin school and have high regard for my school. Being a decent Indian I shall never utter a word against the school which nurtured my knowledge.

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  • Thilak Shetty, mangalore, dubai

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Attention Gokul, I don't agree with your allegation towards Christian Institutions. I was privileged to study in Christian institutions. I had never gone through such incidents. There might be few people. But you can’t defame the all catholic institutions for that reason. When I was in St.Aloysius College even I benefited from their subsidized mid day meal. Fr. Prashanth Madtha was in charge of that. He used to offer subsidized meals to Hindu poor students at cost of 25 paise. At same time middle class Christian students were paying Rs 1 per meal. Do you think it was discrimination? Further more my house is located to quite near to Olavina Halli Charity House, Kinya, Mlr(Affiliated to Mother Teresa’s Charity). I can give you first hand report on their charity works. They are treating leprosy patients free of cost. After treatment they rehabilated many Hindu families in nearby areas by purchasing land & building houses free of cost. For your kind information none of them were converted to Christianity. Even they are offering free medicines and treatments for poor local people irrespective of religion. When I was child I used to go there along with my mother for treatments. There was a Head Sister called Ermana Joseph. She financially supported a number of Hindu dominated local Clubs on several occasions. Without knowing facts please don’t hurt Catholic Christians feelings. As a Mangalorean we should be grateful to their service to the society.

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  • Nutan, Mangalore

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    What Gokul has commented is exactly right because I have come across such experience when I studied in convent school (primary school, highschool as well as in college). Though I do not want to generalise all schools, there may be an exception. This is not gender discrimation but with regard to treating of non-christian students. So I have decided not to send my children to such schools.

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  • Priya, Permannur

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Mr. John D'souza, Good comment But Plz Try to read the news papers also before do the comment. I am not supporting the New Life But I cant belive that the notice printed by New Life only. 2days ago in evenning news paper the news came as the press name mentioned in the notice of New Life is closed 10 years back. Whether that handbills of ten years old...? and about the protest i ll Tell u Mr. John. They thrown the stone's bcuz on the peaceful protest S.P ordered LatiCharage. The police mens acted like Bhajarangadal Agents. As a BJP supporter whether u can put the presure on the govt. to arrest the culprits...?

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  • Fr. Baptist Pais, SVD, Allipade/ Andheri East

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    I too agree with you Ms. Janet Tauro that violence is not an answer at any cost. But how can you justify the violence by police on nuns and women?Kindly read the detailed report and see the photos of those helpless nuns and women who were mercilessly beaten by the police. I believe it will touch your heart.

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  • Don, Katapady

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Dear Gokul/P.A.I./Santosh, Iam an unfoortunate christian who did not get a chnace to study in christian institutes, unlike you guys. But I was fortunate enough to study in a Hindu school!! I was constantly taunted by the Hindu teachers for studying in that school. One of the teacher even threatened me to sack out of the school for being Christian!! he even told me why dont I go to St. Aloysius school!!. They were teasing me & fellow christians for eating fish & meat( Bhoothai da Vasane Barpund!)Should I gone & dmaged some Hindu institues or worshiping places. I tolerated all these & stood first in my class!!Now u guys dont justify some thing wrong by giving some lame excuses. Just see the contributions the christian institues have done to the community.

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  • Vipul, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Very good interview. Dr Acharyas is educated enough to understand the root cause. It is Catholics fault to over-react and attack police force. They should have followed legal channel before taking law into the hands. And stop protesting and marching for each and everything happening the world against christians.

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  • Ajay, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    All these arguments we are having are nice and good. This is the right way to get over differences in a democratic civilized society. We have differences and we deal with them in a civil way. Some here say they were slighted in a Christian Organization, well good then you protest against it. We Christians are not perfect lot, we are sinners like you and we make a lot of mistakes, may be much more than you do. So you have every right to protest , file a complaint, do all that in a civil manner.I agree we Christians are not as perfect as the Sangh Parivar and we make a lot of mistakes. That is just not the point of all this. The issue here is Violence by Sangh Parivar against whoever they think they disagree with. We had this beef eating episode a few months back and then we had women not dressing up and behaving like how Sangh Parivar wanted them to and then now this issue. And each time the Sangh Parivar indulges in brazen violence almost at will with impunity. The fact that Sangh Parivar thinks it has the right to indulge in violence with impunity is the issue here.

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  • Blaan Mendonca, Mangalore / USA

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    It is Shameful to say " A Mistaken Identity and Mistaken Action-Dr V S Acharya". Your Govenment is Elected and it is not Dictated. First of all it is Illegal to take law into hands whatever is the situation. There is a constitution, Law enforcement body, Civil Courts, High Courts, and Supreme Court. A Complaint is Required and an Arrest Warrant and it will Follow up with a Law Suit Against the Culprit and Then the Punishment Will Be Upheld by the Judge to the Culprit after it is Prooved in the Court. India is the largest Democractic Country in the world. No Where it is mentioned India belongs to one religion. Earth is Round and It Does not have Any Standing Pillar to Support it.

    So you are free to live any where in any country according to the laws of the land. Freedom is our Birth Right and We shall have it. Religious Rights are the Wish and Will of an Individual.Everybody is Born with a Free Will From God.Everybody has the Right to Choose. So No one can dictate what religion an Individual must follow.

    You Can See There are New Temples built in United States of America And they are Protected by the Law Enforcement Body of America. America is the Country with Free Will Wish & Freedom of Speech And Expression. Pilgrims moved to America For the Main Reason Freedom of Religion. Today AMerica is a Free Country for All Religion. There is no Place for Extremism, Terrorism and Hatredness. America is the only Country where a waiter in a Bar or Restaurant are Called "Sir". Thats Respect and Freedom.

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  • Alwin, Bahrain,

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dr. Acharya, in one of your answers, you have said"Catholics have promised us that they will ensure that a similar situation will not occur again". Here what are you trying to say? Are you trying to say that Catholics Damaged all these Churches? you sound really foolish...

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  • Concerned Citizen, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    If we were to review any social organization around the world, we would find that fundamentally, they are either built on:

    1. A Campaign of Hope for a better future

    2. A Campaign to address the Fear of an undesirable situation Examples of organizations that are built on the campaign of hope include various NGO's, Mother Teresa's organization, UNICEF etc. These organizations tend to cater to the hope of a better tomorrow. Then, there is a second kind of organization - the one that are built to address Fear.

    The 'Fear' in itself maybe different and could range from various issues related to climate change, personal safety, epidemic diseases etc. I personally believe that we need to be very watchful of organizations or agendas that are built on this campaign of 'fear'. The whole Iraq war for example was based on the campaign of fear that Saddam had Weapons of Mass Destruction (and look how it turned out).

    I see a number of organizations springing up worldwide that are dealing with this campaign of fear. In the context of our current subject, the Sangh Parivar is another instance of such an organization. The sense of fear that Hinduism and Hindus are under threat, is what's driving their agenda. Whether that belief is true or not is not the focus of my message and is something that I would request each of you to decide for yourselves. While the campaign of Hope is vivid and abstract, the campaign of fear is generally more specific and hence is drawing a better following around the world these days. As concerned citizens, we need to think twice whenever we decide to follow anyone launching a campaign of fear. While I believe there are several legitimate organizations highlighting serious issues, a vast majority of them are 'self serving' and are primarily intended at what I can best describe as 'hate campaigns'. My humble appeal as a concerned citizen of India and a member of the human race to all is 'Please be wary and do not be led by thugs who with their eloquent language and misplaced passions are making this world a dangerous place for all of us and our future generations'.

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  • Venita, UAE

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Hello Gokul, As you say you faced so many humiliations in a Christain school what made you continue there .....

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  • Rajesh Pai K, Udupi/Bangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    These kind of incidents should only increase the bondage between Hindu, Muslim and Christians in our coastal area (every where else too) - because don't we know that we always lived peacefully? Please we should stop blaming, hating each other (from the messages I gather that) - otherwise we will let sadistic forces take upper hand. Nammooru was always peaceful and will always be. That's the beauty of our region. Let this spirit be our guiding light - regards and love - Rajesh.

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  • Fr. Baptist Pais, SVD, Allipade/ Andheri East

    Fri, Sep 19 2008

    Dear Santosh, Udupi, Why are you against Catholics? What harm they have done to you? You seem to be enjoying the pains and sufferings our nuns and women undergoing! May the God you believe in may bless you.

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  • syble, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Mr.Gokul, People of your mentality still send their children to Christian schools why?

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  • R. Almeida, Udupi/Bangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear home minister, I don’t think it is a mistaken identity. How a person/police can attack  Nuns and women? Do you justify this as mistaken identity? If so why this Bajrang Dal is not coming forward with an apology to Catholic Church? However your answers are soothing and we hope you will be able to control all the militant groups (BD) and not the other way round.

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  • Lancelot Pais, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Mr. Gokhul I too studied in Mangalore Catholic school and am surprised that you had teachers making you do what you claim. This is strange because at any given time we had atleast 40% if not more if Non Christian teachers in our school. I understand now the Non Catholic students are out numbering Catholic/Christian students. Academic achievements are also are attributed to non catholics. If this is the case! is it due to the treatment by the teachers? I guess the Christian student who attended Hindu schools have gratitude to the school and teachers than to talk about what treatment they received whilst being deciplined.

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  • Swetha, Mangalore/Canada

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Which school did you study Gokul? I studied only in convent schools, never heard anything like this.

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  • Prashanth Franklin, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Gokul it is sad and unfortunate that you quote what one in a million would have probably said and make it look like that is what Christianity preaches. There might be some Hindu teachers too who do not preach the right thing, but one does not assume that it is what Hinduism preaches. I think you are smart enough to judge for yourself whether what a teacher is preaching is right or not. Or are you not smart enough? PAI the same message goes to you as well. If you feel that this is what Christian schools preach, you should have left the school immediately. I am sure you did not.

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  • P.A.I, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    I totally agree with Gokul. Even i studied in christian schools and remember teachers saying that same.. I could re collect that i was in 6th Std that time.

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  • Anand, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear Mr.Gokul, I too have gone to a Christian School for more than 12 years and have faced any discrimation whatsoever. Teachers no matter what religion have always treated equally. I dont think anybody has forced thier religious thoughts on any one of us. Also this school hard equal number of non-christian teachers and that too one of them being the Asst Headmaster. I am sure if the things what you are saying is true such teachers would never have taught in these schools. Also if the Christians wanted to impose thier thoughts (quotes as you call them) on others, why did we have seperate classes as Catechism and Moral Science. I think you are just misleading us on this issue of doctrination. However I agree with your view that violence is not the answer to anything.

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  • Melwin, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear Gokul, I understand what u have experienced in studying in a christian school, I also did so. But such things were not in my school where all treated equally, no humiliation and so on. It depends on which shcool, teacher at what age (years back) it all happened. Schools are still bad with regard to the abuse of children especially, girl children, u cannot generalize this to all schools. But all this has solutions, law , government, shcool authority, community leaders. Bajrang could have done it easily as they had their own people in the Government. they have no faith in their government or government is bajrang, thats all.

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  • Shaun, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Gokul, I really doubt if you are speaking the truth i too studied in a Christian Institute but this was never the attitude of the teachers there as all teachers in teh Chrsitian institutes have been told to have a secular approach. Your allegations seem to be concocted or maybe you are involved in false propoganda as you want to tarnish the image of Christians...

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  • Antony, Dubai

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    We all know what ever happened in Gujarat,Mangalore,babri masjid is very bad. every thing happening is political. It doesn’t matter its BJP, congress, JDS or any tom dick and harry.. Money and power makes man to be animal. I hate political leaders of India, they are dirty creature & people are fools to vote than.

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  • Rowena, Mangalore/ Bahrain

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    It hurts me too much to see our Christian brethren so angry and tortured by what's happening back home..I cried watching the news today..how can the police beat them? We have evry right to be enraged..our places of worship are damaged for God's sake..do they realise what they have done..they have brought God's wrath on them..Mind u Sir, most of u all have been educated and moulded in Convent schools and colleges..is this how u pay back respect to us???..I am ashamed to say that our leaders are not making our own motherland a secure place for us to stay

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  • Rudolph, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Mistaken Identity and mistaken action.....Yet another irresponsible statement from a responsible person.

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  • Anil , Kuwait

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear Janet, its easy to comment from far but who faced this they only know the reality. U was there in manglore or u born n brought up in ksa itself. How can u blame our youth. They tried their level best. Our youth, nuns and women not human beings or they have iron body? Do u know who started violence? If u dont know then dont comment please....

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  • Santosh, Udupi / Bahrain

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    GOKUL.......a very well and fitting reply for all those who have been praising about christian schools, hospitals in this column for the past few days....There are thousands like you but they don't want to waste their time telling about what happens in christian schools....

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  • Edwyn Fernandes, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Christians praying in convents and churches and not protesting are beaten up mercilessly by POLICE.Christians have been arrested for doing nothing wrong and are taken to bellary jail.No news channels are showing what's really happening.

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  • Shantanu, Bangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    This is response to John Peter Fernandes Moodbelle/Nottingham. Ivan D'Souza is trying to gain political milage from this issue. He lost the last elections because he has limited standing in Mangalore. Some 'local' like Suresh Ballal should be given ticket.

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  • Gokul, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    We find people targeting Bajrang Dal, however why do people forget the root cause of issue, i.e. "New Life". My close friend himself had attended a meeting held at New life and its sad but true that hindu religion as well as Gods were targeted and they even offered my friend financial assistance if he converted into christianity.

    I believe whatever my friend said since we know each other from past many years and my friend has nothing to do with Sangh parivar. Now I can also find many readers questioning on Why churches and Christian schools are targeted when "New life" is the main culprit. Well I myself studied in a Christian school for 11 years, and here are few quotes from teachers during my 11 years -

    (1)"After death Christians go to heaven, others have to be really good to be there"

    (2) If a christian student is bad or disobedient teacher used to shout at him - "Ur unfit to be a christian, you better follow some other religion"

    (3)Students not allowed to wear holy threads, or wear "Rakhis" during Raksha Bandan (I myself was asked to remove it)

    (4)"World will end soon as per Nostradamus(???) and only followers of Christ will survive in this world".

    The list goes on and on. I am not targeting any religion nor I have anything against any religion, for that matter I am a rationalist, and equal follower of all religions. I am not supporting Bajrang Dal nor saying whatever they did was right, no one has right to take law in its hands.

    However its emotional outburst - What will you do if someone continuously targets your religion or God publicly and repeatedly, one cannot expect everyone to be quite, some element will react to it and so did Bajrang Dal. However its sad that real culprits escape and innocent people get targeted. Its high time we start respecting all religions and create a peaceful atmosphere.

    And also its time that Bajrang dal realises that violence is not the solution for any problems, only innocent get targeted, if they feel Hindu religion is being targeted there are several ways to promote it rather than resorting to violence.

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  • Fr Harold C D'Souza, Pangala

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Minister V.S.Acharya has stated that the people who take law into their own hands shoud be punished.Those who took law into their own hands were Hindu Fundamentalists. It was not a mob that had attacked but a few individuals. It was not the case with the christians who thronged Motimahal area.It was was a sponteneous reaction and controlling such crowd is not easy.Knowing this how any one can justify the police behaving so rudely and unfortunately these police are under same Home Minister. So the police do not keep the Minister informed.This situation is sad!

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  • Felix Monteiro, Pune

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    The title of the interview sounds quite strange. If we look at the whole episode it doesn't look like mistaken action. It is a well planned one. A silly reason that the helicopter could not land due to bad weather doesn't hold water. It is the responsibility of the government to order the local administration to take control of the situation. I hope the government stands by the assurance of the minister.

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  • MAXIM , UDUPI/BANGALORE

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    very surprise that some people are writing police side

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  • krishna , mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    yes mr winston dsouza but whom to tell all mostly all minorities are against bjp from the day one they dont like bjp comes to power cental/state or city corporation or zilla parishad electoins including all family members irrespective of age only hate BJP AND ITS PARIWAR only blaming...

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  • Preetham, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Mr. Acharya you are happy that situation is under control, what about we christians who undergone, physical and mental turmoil. Even in your interview not mentioned once also action against Bajrangdal. This is very clear that, the fanatics have full back up by the Govt. Another Gujarat in making....

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  • Ganesh, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    You said it Ms Janet.Even God whom christians believe (Jesus) also said if they hit one side show them the other side but dont hit them back.If christians disown the deeds of New Life organisation,they should openly say that and should not support by sitting silent.

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  • John Peter Fernandes, Moodubelle/Nottingham

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear chrisians brothers and sisters, there is great need of chrisian leader now...Mr.Ivan Dsouza is a true leader who was present every time when he was needed and he did't standback to go police station...pls support ivan dsouza in next election..

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  • Praveen s, Niddodi

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Janet first try to understand what actually happened in Mangalore and then comment ok? Holy nSacrament is more presious than our body....

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  • Alwin, Kuwait

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear Janet Tauro, Please read this article with your open eyes. The sister had given the entire happening in detail. But in any case it it totally unacceptable to lathi charge on women.

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  • Alphonso D'Souza, Bendoor / dubai

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dr. Acharaya should have given this statement in the first place rather than saying "conversions are the main cause". He did not even know who were involved in such conversions. For us, Mangaloreans, caste is a secondary issue. Our Traditions, customs and Tranquility come first.

    Dr.Acharya is new to his Rank, probably he did not know how to react to the situation. We must all realize - if we believe in God (does not matter which religion one belongs to), the Temple, Church or Mosque are built in our Hearts - by breaking the cement bricks no one can break the real worshipping place within un. We all must be peaceful. Hot iron can not be cut by another hot one, it needs a cool tool. Let's bear the cross few of our Hindu Brothers have offered us and pray for them to regain thier lost humanity.

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  • Edwin, Managalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear Janet, you are right is saying they too are human beings. But do you know exactly who was the one first threw the stones whether christian and or someone else to begin with. If u are not sure, then please do not humble

    You may be aware in Gulf countries police forces are superior, though few have time until they find out at least some clue about the mischief. Here there is no need, just a order is enough, and rest assured. And hence, many a deaths in lockups, encounters which are false etc... etc...

    Please collect the real situation and write comments. Of-course, I too don't blame them, except saying, prior knowing exactly who did it, do not harm the one who was not at all a part of it. Do mind, the ones who got caned and assaulted may have never involved and hiding to save themselves from the culprits.

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  • Santhosh D Souza, Mangalore/Dubai

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Janet Tauro sitting in Saudi dont write big things.We catholics are always peacefull people they throwed our blessed sacrament so our community protested at that time this voilence.

    Sacrament is more presious then our body jesus himself he told he will be there always So it is very important to chrsitian dont write nonsense.

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  • Vinson Vaz, Kadri, Mangalore/Kuwait

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    The amateurish approach of V S Acharya, only worsened the situation. Being originally from the Coastal region he being a Home Minister his priority was to immediately visit the disturbed areas and give reassurances. This will forever go down in history for his being invalid at the time when he home region needed him most.

    Also how can he let Mahindra Kumar go scot free. Is Mahindra Kumar a product of their evil plans of the BJP? Can you answer this question you Honorable Minister if ever you read this comment of mine.

    Also the policemen who barged into the Permannur church in Ullal need to be punished especially the inspector in charge for allowing such a dreaded thing to happen. Does the plice department have the courage any time whatsoever in future to barge into any Mosque, or temple. Will they do it. The whole police station and its employees need to be punished along with the contingent of the reserve police who committed the offence. Also wearing a full faced helmet by polce officers allow them to do their dirty deeds in the dark, since the full faced motor bike helmets were used by a lot of people in uniform. Kindly explain and what steps shall be taken to curb such misdeeds? We shall never forget this untill a proper apology is given by all the erring policemen. This shall indeed go down in History for the partiality of the BJP towards Mangalorean christians

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  • Janet Tauro, KSA

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    I think our Christian people saw the Amaranath land violence on TV & they tried to do in that way, but police has no other option than to save themselves. It's really rediculous to blame to police as they are working for us, so we can consider ourselves as animals as we don't know how to behave. I kindly ask our christian brothers as to why they started violence by throwing stones at police, are our police not human beings or they have iron body?? We should know our fault first than blaming others. Violence is not answer at any cost, everything can be solved only through dialouges & talks, violence will make more loses and also kills human beings. Due to our irresponsible youth some of our ladies, nuns have tasted the police stick.

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  • Vernon Rodrigues, Uppoor / Dubai

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    All are paying the price for voting for a BJP government. Congress is no good but BJP not better still. The police in Karnataka have used their might & energy to beat up ladies who are innocent, elderly and cannot defend themselves. There are so many criminals going scott free atleast try & catch them. By caning innocent citizens it does no good to your image.

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  • Dsouza, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear Mr. Acharya, you may be a good guy. But as a home minister yourself and your government has miserably failed in handling the situation. Whatever the reasons you quote, it clearly looks like your government and local police is involved in creating this situation. Do you think, if your bajrangis do the same thing to a mosque, will they keep quite ? Do you think christians or muslims do the same thing to your temple you will keep quite? Still if you want to prove your innosence, please release all christian youths and put your bajrangi brothers behind bars.

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  • Samson Dsouza, Udupi

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    My dear Acharya Saheb: I know You since my Child hood, When You were in Janatha Party. I even Followed You in your Election Procession while Physically carrying PLOUGH(Neaghilu Hotthah Raitha)while Goerge Fernandes Was the Leader. And Even You had Won that Election. But Later You accepted to join Sangh Parivaar and you were the main Cause for thier exisitence in our state.offcourse you have struggled a lot to get a key position and you were one of the seniour memebr of BJP and they have respected you and have given the title of HM, even you were not contested and not of our public candidate.

    You have lived in surrounding Catholioc Community with your Clinic and you know in you area how many of them are really converted to catholic faith. You were a man of honour untill last Sunday but now i feel you are going to the roots of fundamentalism for the cause of your seat.

    Though I respect you A lot. As Home Minister Please call all the Hindu Fanatics Such as Rama Sene, BD , and whatsover Sene's are exisitng and Please educate the them about the Faith of Catholics.They are Peace Lovers.Have you any time Heard about Persuction to Catholics ever since the Independence to Our Country? In fact in olden Days Our Churches were Protected by Hindu's Mainly Shetty's. Thank God and May God Grant Them Good Happenings. And infuture for God's Sake do not use the word Conversion for Divierting the mind of the people while on your speech.You will have to take Stern Actions against the Culprits(I would Call them Hindu Terrorist) and book them behind the Bars.

    You will have to release all the Innocent cathoilcs who are in the Jail.Question is why these innocent Protestors had to see jail? Main Cause is Your Fanatics. Hence Please Realise and Do the Needful and May God Bless You and Your Team.

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  • Manmohan Rao, Kinnigoli / USA

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Mr. John. If christianity is undergoing all that it today, its because of men like you.

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  • Rajesh, Udupi

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Candid answer B. Shetty ? No straight answers, No plan of action ? No addressing the issue? Please do not politics with lives of People. Every Dog has his day. What was decided in the BJP Convension in Bangalore ? Any Idea? Action followed ? No one from the Bajrang Dal Arrested? They are the Moral Police ? Indian constitution does not mean anything to us? There is no clear answer to any of the clear questions in the interview.

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  • John D'souza, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Acharya is right. It was wrong for us to throw stones and create trouble and make a big issue out of this. The police beat them up and arrested only because they were doing violence from the church. we should also ask New Life not provoke the Hindus and Bajrang Dal by printing these insulting leaflets. We can only have peace if we support nationalist parties such as the BJP and not allow these so called secular parties for taking advantage. All these attacks will stop if this is done

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  • ashok, Dubai

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    DEAR BROTHER KIRAN CRASTA, I AGREE WITH YOU, REALLY YOU KNOW THE SENTIMENTS OF HINDUS & CHRISTIANS LIVING IN MANGALORE & UDUPI. GOD BLESS ALL OF US.

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  • Max, Mangalore., Magalore.

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

     People here are wise enough to see the reality of your BJP. Whoever may come and go or whatever be their motivation, it is not important for us at this moment. We want security and peace, which your Bjp failed to give. Who is ruling the state? BJp or Bajrangdal? Bajrangdal leaders openly claim the responsibility and continue their attaks on Churches, what your Bjp is doing? Why don't they arrest them? Our police are busy watching the video clips of our protest meeting and marking our youth to arrest them. You are sitting there and justifying their acts.

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  • asha, Sharjah

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear brothers, the true church is Jesus himself and he is living in each Christian heart. No one can destroy it. Let us strengthen this Church within us with prayer and forgiveness.Police should not have entered church premises to disperse the christians.

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  • Alfred J. Rebello, Kundapur/Dubai

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Thugh I agree with protest some of the comments of Dr. Acharya, but by just saying nothing will change. A stern action on the culprits is the need of the hour so such things will never happen again. I am not saying some christian religious groups are saints but nobody has the right to take the law in their hands. If these BD, VHP or RSS claims that they found objectionable materials from this group called 'New life or Born Again', then they should hand over them to the authorities to take action. But by taking law in their hands they made it worse to all. The Government should NOT allow anybody to take the law in their hands. If this Government brings such an atmosphere, then we can see our state will be peacefull. Therefore, we blaming Government and each other no use. This is the biggest opportunity for the BJP Government to improve their image.

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  • Kiran Crasta, Mangalore / dubai

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear Hindu brothers & sisters, we respect you & follow the culture of Hindu society in each & every aspect. Be it by dress code or our names or any celebration or anything we are more or less equal. Even i request Bajrang Dal to understand this since our state & also Congress led Central Govt. not in a position to ban them fearing their votebank.

    We christians are not Anti nationals, we love our country & we never involved in any activity which hurt your sentiments but there are political leaders who try to dig issues to create panic in the society.

    Let us live in peace as brothers & sisters leaving behind the incidents. Keep politicians aside as they are in our Country only to spoil the peace by making useless issues for their own benefits. We all christians request the concerned Govt. to ban New life & other groups which disturbs peace & harmony in the society.

    Also we christians let us not forget to keep Congress & JD(S) aside as they are in a bad taste in the Whole country itself.

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  • Afthab, Mangalore/ Dammam

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear Rakesh bro.... I m sorry to say but i dont agree with you at all. how can you say that non-ruling party is doin this? its politics brother... even the ruling party can create this and later make scenario in such a way that the blame goes on the Opposition or the Non-Ruling party.well i dont point on one but it may be anyone, we never know. i absolutely don't agree with you.

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  • Vinod Nazareth, Moodbidri

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Ya its true preema. We lost faith in administration. only innocents got arrested.

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  • Vinod Nazareth, Moodbidri

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    But how come only christians got arrested. Now all r in Madikeri Jail. Most of them are youth but what wrong did they do. They did the right thing.Now this youth cant go abroad. There might be a problem for passport. They all were inncoent. Now what abt their future. Even a single bajrangis not arrested.

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  • Preema , Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    No need of justifying the fact.It is true we chrstians lost faith in administration.why the innocents have to suffer and not the true culprits. Now we have to look up only to God. He sees all things. Lets rememeber this

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  • Arun Gomes, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Hindus never treated christians like second citizens in India, they loved us & we love each other. I have friends only hindus & they never seperate me saying i'm a christian, also they treated us like their own brothers. Since some of the Christian groups which is not under the juridiction of Roman catholics publish unwanted things about other religion, which makes issue complicated as no one knows about the gropus in Christians instead they blame all Christians. I kindly request the Govt. of India, State Govts to ban all christian groups in India except Roman Catholics. Let all people live in peace, Stop conversion, we all are human beings & let us think only male & female religion exists in this world.

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  • Joe, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    The Home Minister has answered the questions to Daijiworld in a very satisfying and convincing. Well prepared interview. Dear Mr. Minister, on the day after the attacks on Christians, you never condemned or warned the attackers but were justifying their actions on the pretext of conversions. Please show in actions and not in words., which will convince the community. Why are you not arresting the bajrangdal leaders who is openly threatening on TV channels.

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  • Donald Roche, Mangalore/ Jeppu.Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    I know Dr. V.S.Acharya very well. 33 years back I used to visit him regularly as a medical rep.at his clinic Udupi and Kalmady. I was trying for a post in Syndicate Bank to one of my relatives. Dr.Acharya helped me in this regard. Also he used to support my companys products. (never used to take samples. only one unit to remember the product). Truely speaking that time he never used to dislike christion community. Still I have good opinion about him. I hope he will do the needful to the catholic community.

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  • Rakesh K, DXB-IXE

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    I regret for what happend in Mangalore. But for people who accuse BJP Govt for evrything please think once why would a newly appointed,first time BJP govt would do this within 100 days of power ?. Are the people sitting in Bangalore or Delhi is stupid enough to spoil their own name? Dont know they very well if they do any such thing they would not come to power next time ? Atleast for the sake of power if not public service these people would want to stay in their seat, do you think they would instigate such tensions and sign their own retirment. I do not know know why the people of mangalore who are supposed to be intelligent than the rest act like this. If some political party is involved then its very obvious that it should be the opposition and not ruling party. What did the oposition rulers do in mangalore, they cme and just shouted slogan against BJP Govt. They just took this stage as another reason to show their frustation for not coming into power. All these loosers who did not have work suddenly came to mangalore to gain political momntum. What do you think Mr Kharge or Mr Gowda will do anything. DO you think they will come and help the affected flys or provide some relief or something ? .

    They just came, accused BJP and left, their work is done. If BJP was in opposition also they would do the same. Opposition are always to to oppose the policies of ruling Govt, accuse if anything goes wrong and claim its their achivement by the people in center or state if anything good happens. People should not be stupid enough just to believ in them to this one incident.

    I myself Am a victim of Bjrang dal a year back in Mlore, luckily the incident ended in a peacefull way thanks to intevern from some locals. Do i have to Accuse BJP Govt if Bajrangi's trouble me if am in a movie or a beach or parks with my Sister, Girlfriend, fiance or wife ? . these people are like cockroaches and they cant be controlled but just eradicated. Bajrangadal was not born just hundred days back but decades old. Why dint the Ruling Govts then dint abolish them ? . Coz they feared their vote bank. Now when BJP Govt comes to power they cry that BJP has come to power they cry that Govt has failed to curb them.

    I know i am sounding like a BJP's spokesperson now , but i am not representing. I am one among the the person who voted for BJP expecting some changes and devlopment of my place, my state thinking a first time new Govt would do some good work to keep performing in all elections. Its just unfortunate that these incidents are happening during the new Govt days, but i believe no one wants that to happen.

    I am sure BJP is the last one's in the state who would want any trouble during their days atleast in order to stay in power. Otherwise any stupid fool would know that their days are numbered if they instigate such a thing. From the attitude of opposition it raises the doubt that they are behind this. They were ready with their politica

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  • Winston D'Souza, Mangalore / dubai

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Mr. Yediurappa, V.S. Acharya both are good persons, but the opposition parties played so many political games right after BJP occupied the chair, they have been made like to play helter skelter. But they never knew that it's only making BJP stronger & stronger day by day. Both Congress & JD (S) leaders never arrived to know people's problems in Mangalore, instead they came here only to make their voteshare perfect, instead of blaming the Govt. , they should have advised the govt., how to handle the problem. BJP is never against Christians, but i can't understand why Christians are running behind Congress leaders , also why we invite them when we protest, which clearly makes other party heart burning.

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  • Venance A. J. Crasta, Udyavar / Bangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Well answered by DR. VS Acharya. Punish the culprits at the earliest. This kind of riots should not happen in future and no one to be allowed to take law in their hand.

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  • Madhu Sodhan., Mangalore.

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Mr.Acharya, Some hindu organisations are going to stage a protest-rally on 21st spt.  These events will destroy our peaceful Mangalore. How are you going to maintain law and order.

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  • Vidya Serrao, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    We should keep aside these political parties either Congress, JD(S) as these parties are good for nothing. It seems the way they came to Mangalore, they want communal riots to happen so that they can gain votes Mr. Yediurappa a good person, but after BJP took over we can't understand what is happening & who is behind all this?? Anything happening to tarnish BJP image??? as it has captured opposition MLAs & lot of people leaving other parties to join BJP.

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  • Tony, Bangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    The Bajrangdal Karnataka chief has openly admitted on TV that he was behind the attacks on the Churches in Karnataka, but still he has not been arrested and is busy giving interviews on TVs. What does our Home minister has to say to this? I think the BJP Govt is scared to arrest the leaders of BD, fearing that they will pull their Govt down.

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  • Rajesh, Barbados

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    We love you catholic, yeah protestant too! But stop printing fishy bad stuff, you never know how much it could hurt! Perhaps more than that of a prayer hall been pulled down! Simply because correction can not be made unlike you re constructs the prayer rooms! This is good, what people need to do is keep away your emotion and sentiments and understand the root cause and as Mr Acharya said reaction to actions doesn’t stops the issue! Honestly, We LOVE you Christians just because the majorities in you are symbol of LOVE in Mangalore just like Majority among Hindus in India. Think hard no one will oppose it! At least from Heart!

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  • Fr.Max Capuchin., Mangalore.

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Respected Dr Acharya, Since my childhood days I know you and respected you, but unfortunately the dirty Politics and your party takes it away from you. You are very good in answering the questions and giving assurances. You have failed miserably to impart Justice you are just trying to console us that’s all. Please don’t call anything most unfortunate, least expected, mistaken identity, mistaken action, a co-incidence and so on. The entire World knows the Reality and the Facts. The root cause is not the illegal conversion any publications, but your Police Force allowing your ‘goondas’ to take The Law in their hand and attack the holy Places. As you are having interviews and peace meetings, they are going on doing this. Do you call this Law and order!?! or Justice for everyone? What is the meaning of your saying- “ We will not spare any one who violates law”? Is it only for Christians? So far it is applied only for Christians and you are saying it is a mistaken identity and mistaken action!!!?

    Dear respected Doctor, come on still you are the same doctor for us who helped so many people in their sickness and pain. Act out on your assurance to the people of this region who are pained and disappointed, still placed their hope in you. Arrest those people who violate law and provoke these communal disturbances. If you wish You can do it at once. God Bless You.

    Dear DAIJIWORLD.COM, Thank you so much for your excellent coverage, we are very happy to see the positive response from our Brethren all over the World, they have really shown their concern towards their suffering Brothers and Sisters in Mangalore. God Bless Them All.

    I`m sad to notice that so far no collective response from UAE, where the largest number of Indian Christians live. May be they are waiting for the week end holiday. Let us pray for each other, may God bless us all. “LORD MAKE US THE INSTRUMENTS OF YOUR PEACE”.

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  • Ajay, Dubai/Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    He is sayin it was a mistaken action after so many perople are injured and admitted in the hospital. First of all you arrest those cops whoe were hitting innocent people who were inside the church and not outside. How could your Govt. allowed cops inside the chruch.

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  • James, Bangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    well done and good answers. it was congress, which tried to take advantage of the situation instead of contorolling the situation. See how Ivan D'souza trying to become a hero in our community in Mangalore.

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  • VEENA, UDUPI

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Well prepared Mr. acharya. But you failed to give one thing that what punishment your government will going to give such nasty people who attacks on church. As a hindu me so many times visited that Adoration chapel. Its has very peaceful and cool place. You can pray with God.

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  • Joyce, Udupi

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    I saw in Namma TV. a bajranga Dala person very freely has warned the Christians that Hindus will brust like a volcano on Christians.. if not confined to their prayers inside four walls?  What does Dr. V.S. Acharya have to say to this? Its shocking that a person can so freely threat communities of other religion and put limits to their action. No Christian or their preachers, priests gain from conversion, PLEASE UNDERSTAND THIS ONCE AND FOR ALL... All conversion and this stuff is just a gimmick to show power of some handful of people. We need security for our innocent people. Who will provide this?

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  • Sujith, Mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    Dear Daijiworld please pass on this article to CNN, BBC and all worldwide channels. Home Minister is saying it is mistaken identity and action. Then when there were open claiming reports were coming in BD why did he not instruct the police to arrest them.

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  • nidhi, mangalore

    Thu, Sep 18 2008

    I know the values of Nuns. I am studied in their school. From nursery to final BSC. I am felt very bad that the police force attacked on them. MR. acharya as a home minister you should take proper action against police. Don’t give any reason for this. Christians are so peaceful people that all world knows about them.

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  • John Montero, Malpe/USA

    Wed, Sep 17 2008

    As a former patient of Dr.Acharya I have full confidence that he will get to the bottom of this issue. Almost 80% of patients when he was a practising doctor in Malpe were Christians. He can even speak Catholic Konkani.

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  • bharath shetty , Kateel -USA

    Wed, Sep 17 2008

    I liked Dr. Acharya's cadid answers to the questions. It is very pathetic to see Congress/JDS trying to gain political mileage out of the issue.

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  • Austin Fernandes, Mangalore/Goa

    Wed, Sep 17 2008

    This is a shocking news for some third party community and advantage seeker that the Hindu/Christian problem has come to an end. Between the two community the third one has got the major share to fuel the fire. Anyway the unity of Mangalore is like a Mallige (Jasmine) one can crush the mallige but not its fragrance. Better luck next time you third party.

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Title: Mangalore: A Mistaken Identity and Mistaken Action - Dr V S Acharya



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