Letter.

Letter Published in Gulf News UAE on 9Aug 16,Let everyone live peacefully

India is a vast country comprising of many states with different languages, religions and culture (“Focus: Intolerance in India?”, Gulf News, August 5). In my opinion, when people of different faiths, with their own belief systems, live together, it makes a country a vibrant nation. However, the recent incidents and atrocities towards the Dalit community are highly condemnable and an inhumane act. If India is allowing all sorts of communities to live together, then food habits should not be curtailed. I am a vegetarian, and I don’t expect others to follow. Religion, sentiments and food habits should not be interfered with, in my opinion. Killing someone for carrying beef and ill-treating people of the Dalit community is violence and against the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. India gained independence with non-violent principles and this should be remembered. People’s sentiments should be considered and people should also learn how to behave with those of other religions and caste. We have lived together in harmony for decades and the minorities have been enjoying their benefits and living peacefully here. The government should implement strict laws against people who are ill-treating other communities. And place extra importance on cases of rape. The criminals should be punished severely without prolonging the judgement duration. From Mr K. Ragavan

Bengaluru, India