On the request of some readers, here are my views on the Mangalore incident
Every society during its march of civilization evolves a set of values and code of societal behaviour. India as the oldest living civilization has over the aeons produced a culture which believes in respecting diverse views and behavioural patterns experienced during its interaction with other societies. However, as every society has a core culture and a value system, interactions with other societies may result in producing something which is not in conformity with the traditional value systems of the society.
People can express their indignation on what they dislike but violence and vandalism are completely unacceptable. It should be left to the better judgment of the people to accept or reject such behavioural patterns or values which have come through the interactions in a highly mobile and globalized world.
Violence or ban by the State do not produce any lasting effects. Instead, awareness about the consequences of such practices should be brought through dialogue and education.
I am fully confident that our culture has an inherent strength to separate evil from good and preserve the value system and the health of the society.
Mangalore incidents are an occasion to pause and ponder as to how we strike a balance between tradition and the emerging trends among the younger generation.
