Mangaluru: At the recent peace meeting in Mangaluru, several leaders shared their perspectives on rising communal tensions and administrative gaps.
Mangaluru witnessed a powerful display of unity and resolve at the Netravati Hall of the Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat, where leaders from various political parties, religious groups, and cultural organizations gathered to discuss ways to restore peace in the region following recent disturbing incidents.
The peace meeting, chaired by Home Minister G. Parameshwara, featured meaningful suggestions and firm appeals for communal harmony from all corners of society.
MLA Bharat Shetty noted, “Global peace is a distant dream, and no meeting alone can create harmony. Lasting peace begins with transforming individual mindsets and curbing crime. For example, cow theft is a criminal act—if police take preemptive action, riots won’t occur. Similarly, the ongoing sand scam must be tackled firmly. If not, we’ll need another round of discussions.”
Roy Castellino, representing the Bishop, warned that an “invisible force” is actively trying to fragment society and fuel communal discord. “This chaos can only be addressed through timely legal action. Laws must be enforced without bias.”
Jalil Krishnapur of SCPI lamented society’s apathy: “When someone is injured in an accident, people ignore them. But if someone is mobbed, crowds gather instantly. This mindset must change. Compassion toward all lives will lead us toward solutions.”
Sullia MLA Bhagirathi Murulya raised concerns over alleged police misconduct. “For seven nights, police took photos of two women without explanation. Action should be taken against such behavior. Moreover, I wasn’t informed about the Home Minister’s Subramanya visit—this is disappointing.”
CPM District Secretary Munir Katipalla stressed that communal tensions are intertwined with ideological rifts and organized rackets. “Legal measures alone aren’t enough. Schools should run constitutional literacy programs. We must revive unity through cultural efforts. The youth have lost touch with local languages like Tulu and Beary. This disconnect has widened societal gaps.”
V. Maxim, a respected Christian leader in the district, emphasized the collective desire for peace among citizens. “Everyone in the district wants to live in peace. If the law is respected and the police are allowed to function without interference, social harmony will naturally follow,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Aziz Darimi, a noted religious scholar, called for an uncompromising stance against hate and crime. “Maintaining public order is the responsibility of the government. Hate-filled speeches and unlawful behavior cannot be tolerated in a district that is considered blessed. Anyone engaging in criminal activity must be treated as a criminal—regardless of their community—and strict legal action should follow.”
The event served as a reminder that true peace can only be achieved through collective responsibility, respect for the law, and zero tolerance for communal polarization.