Date:28/08/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/08/28/stories/2008082855791002.htm

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Sad state

It is sad that religion should divide people. Saffron outfits equate religion with nationalism. In the context of Orissa, they are opposed to the selfless service of Christian missionaries. Denouncing their work as proselytising activity, the sangh parivar affiliates trump up the bogey of forcible conversion and follow it up by threatening and targeting the Christian community.

G. David Milton,

Maruthancode

Hinduism allows freedom of choice and practice. It has never forced its followers to propagate or impose their views on those who follow other religions. The heinous acts of the so-called representatives of Hindus run contrary to what the religion advocates.

Sumathi Chandrashekaran,

Chennai

One wonders whether we are living in a secular state. The government may take action to stop the atrocities being perpetrated on the minorities in Orissa but how effective it will be remains a big question. The people want action on the ground, not hollow promises and sympathetic statements.

J. Eden Alexander,

Thanjavur