Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Shabana’s remarks

It is distressing to note that the reactions to the views expressed by actor Shabana Azmi during a television show have also been polarised on religious lines. In the interview, Shabana not only reiterated her faith in the Indian system but was also emphatic that Muslims in general felt there was sufficient space for them in the Indian set-up. It was just that she used the opportunity to point out some of the problems faced by Muslims, which need to be addressed.

K. Nandakumar,

Bangalore

Our nation is proud of being a secular democracy and it cannot remain silent when one of its citizens is denied the right to buy a house because he or she belongs to a particular religion, community or creed. If Ms Azmi’s claim that she is unable to buy a house in Mumbai because she is a Muslim is true, the state is bound to ensure that such despicable action does not take place anywhere in India.

At the same time, I feel all those affected by such discrimination should approach forums such as the human rights commissions. Going public on such sensitive issues will only add fuel to the raging communal fire, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.

N. Balakrishnan,

Chennai

Not one letter that disagreed with Ms Azmi in these columns presented evidence that contradicted her remark. Instead, the letters said top Bollywood actors are Muslims, there have been four Muslim Presidents and Ms Azmi has received many awards. One even said Muslim women are discriminated against — that all women are discriminated against was conveniently forgotten — and that Ms. Azmi should set this right before complaining. All this is evidence of how deeply divided we are.

A. Edwards,

Salem

We are unable to shed our prejudices. There is no doubt that the plight of Indian Muslims is pathetic. It was further brought to light by the Sachar Committee report. But the fate of millions of poor Indian non-Muslims is also lamentable. We should start thinking beyond religion which has proved to be more divisive than cohesive.

Arvind Narayan,

Mauritius

It is a fact that ordinary Muslims cannot buy an apartment in the Hindu-dominated areas of Mumbai. One cannot blame Shabana for calling a spade a spade.

S.A. Rahman,

Thiruvananthapuram

Except for a few hardcore and fanatical elements in and outside government, the polity is favourable to Muslims. Ms Azmi’s comment may affect the confidence of Muslim youth who are committed to achieving success. There are many opportunities for Muslims to participate in the polity and the number of those participating is improving.

Syed Danish,

New Delhi

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