Divisive forces will be defeated: Patil

Kochi, Oct 19 (UNI) Union Home Minister Shivarj Patil today asserted that 'divisive forces' would not be allowed to take upperhand to disrupt the peaceful co-existence of various religions in the country.

Addressing a mammoth gathering in connection with the Sacredotal Golden Jubilee of Mor Baselios Thomas I here, Mr Patel said '' the central and State Governments were believing in the principle of secularim as enshrined in the Constitution, to respect all religions and not do anything against any religion.'' The problems arise when people do not understand religion in its sense and and these half-baked notions may lead to bloodshed and violence, he noted.

'' These ignorant people think that what they say and what they do is correct and this attitude creates problems in the society,'' Mr Patel said.

The Union Minister said'' if anyone was trying to create fissures, we will try to presuade them to refrain from it and if that doesn't work authority would be used and law will take its own course.'' He said belief of pluralism and diversity arose from the existence of various religions in the country and across the world, and this would help to understand not only one aspect of life but all aspects of life.

'' All religions should co-exist in harmony and peace otherwise economic and cultural development would be affected,'' he noted.

Speaking on the occasion, State Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan said heads of various religions should take the initiative to preach tolerence inorder to reduce communal violence in the society.

'' Communalism and religious insurgency were the bane of the society and these should wiped off for the betterment of the society.

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