Date:21/10/2002 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2002/10/21/stories/2002102100601002.htm

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Violent protests

Sir, — It is unfortunate that the recent bandh in some parts of Maharashtra called by Muslims to protest against alleged blasphemy of the Prophet resulted in mindless violence killing a number of Hindus for no fault of theirs. Why the entire violence was directed against the Hindus is beyond one's reasoning.

The protesters could have made their point by resorting to democratic and constitutional means such as leading silent morchas to the American consulate. One fails to understand why whatever happens abroad should have any repercussions in this part of India. One may recall the incident decades back after a few armed persons had invaded the holy place in Mecca and terrorised the Hajis praying around. Even before the terrorists could be identified, large-scale riots broke out in Hyderabad, Malegaon and other areas. It later turned out that the terrorists were youths belonging to one of the sects of Islam.

Arvind D. Tapkire,
Mumbai