Chidambaram cautions people against 'divisive' forces

Sivaganga (TN), Aug 17: Cautioning people against those trying to divide them, Union Finance Minister

on Saturday said such divisive forces were trying to poison even the minds of children. "The divisive forces are poisoning the mind of not only adults, but even young children. They do it (poisoning) through text books. People should be careful about such forces," he said.

He said this after inaugurating the 15,000th branch of the State Bank of India at Sooranam, a Christian dominated area, and the 15,001st branch of the bank at Kalayarkovil, a Hindu dominated area. The finance minister said he had opened the 10,000th branch of the bank some years ago at Puduvayal, a Muslim area.

"In this country Muslims, Christians and Hindus live together. But the divisive forces are trying to divide them. They try to disturb the unity and harmony among the people. Some are instigating separatism," he said.

In view to develop the economic status of minorities, Chidambaram said he has he ordered the banks to give 15 per cent of the total loan to those belonging to these communities.

PTI