Church politics at its worst
Editor,
Apropos of the letter by one Vesuvius Diengdoh (ST December 15, 2023), as a Christian I am appalled and pained at the same time that the matter relating to the missing money in the Mawkhar Presbyterian Church has been raked up once again in the media, even as it is learnt that the matter is sub-judice. Whatever the concerns or exasperation one may have, I believe the only rational and sensible thing to do for members of the Church is to patiently wait for the completion of the judicial process and its impending outcome, apart from, maybe, any internal probing by the Church to find out the truth.
With regards to the Sohmylleng Mission, whatever decision taken by the Church Committee to wind up the mission must have been based on absolutely clear and convincing grounds as per the powers conferred upon it as the governing authority of the Church. Moreover, I have also learnt that the Constitution of the Church lays down that it is up to the Church Committee, in its wisdom, to decide if and when it is necessary or not to place any matter before the general meeting of the members of the Church. I am sure any issue or grievance can be addressed to the Church leaders if it is done in the right spirit and honourably. I believe that the Church Committee is also fully aware of its responsibility and accountability.
Whether it is by coincidence or design, the aforementioned letter echoes the article published in this paper on May 29, 2023, as far as the seemingly vivid and detailed accounts of the developments in the Church in recent years on the issues raised, is concerned. Does it not raise some pertinent questions in the minds of the readers? Could it be possible that both were authored by the same person who is privy to all decisions of the Church but who has some axe to grind against it? I hope not. But if so, then it would be church politics in its most detestable form.
The worst thing that could have happened to the Church is for its members to harbour a vicious mindset and motivated intent to smear and harm the Church instead of building it. Yes, no one can escape the judgement of God in this life or the life to come. Therefore, let us live not according to our own will but the will of God, knowing fully well that one day we shall have to be accountable to Him.
Yours etc.,
Victor Khongsdam,
Via email
Will the real Indian please stand up?
Editor,
On January 26, we celebrate the Indian Republic Day, where a country that is blessed with multiple religions, castes and creed and with different customs and traditions which are loved by many. Unfortunately today India is surrounded by many demons that are destroying the freedom of the country and are robbing Indians of their livelihoods and freedom like corruption, terrorism, unemployment and underemployment, child labor, illiteracy, corrupt political interferences and fanaticism. These demons are devouring the country and are robbing its peace and happiness.
We are also indulging in dividing ourselves into religions and castes instead of calling ourselves Indians. We prefer to identify ourselves as natives of the state of the country we hail from. Thus we ourselves create this Divide & Rule factor and this is clearly seen at the time of elections, when we vote not for the right party, but the party that has the candidate of our religion and caste.
There is a need today for every Indian to rise up and stand against the factors that divide the people. There is a need for every Indian to understand the need of being united as Indians and pledge not just our loyalty to the country but also voice out the factors that break and divide our unity and fraternity. Today there is a need for every Indian to show that united we can build a happy country and we will close the gap created by disharmony and hatred in the country.
Will the Real Indian please arise and stand for the unity of the country and forget the scars left by unholy events and persons? will the real Indian please stand up? Jai Hind!
Yours etc.,
Cajetan Peter D’Souza
Mumbai – 77
Govt must address unemployment problem
Editor,
While the central government must admit its failure to provide security of Parliament and rectify the loopholes, it cannot run away from the fact of rising unemployment and inflation on which the agitators ventilated their anguish inside the Parliament. Rahul Gandhi is absolutely right when he said, “Breach has doubtless happened. But the reason behind this is unemployment and price rise.” Not only should the government take corrective actions to improve security of Parliament but also must provide social security for all the citizens of our country. Measures like unemployment allowance, ensuring job security for gig workers and other contractual employees, free higher education and health care for the needy are to be taken immediately so that young people of our country do not suffer from hopelessness.
Yours etc.,
Sujit De,
Kolkata