The conundrum of the silent mass of followers

www.mangaloretoday.com

New Delhi, Nov 4, 2018: How many followers of religions in India can honestly claim that they truly represent “A religious group and are empowered sufficiently in the affairs of the religious groups?’ Temple, mosque, church or any other religious entity.  The mass of ordinary devout people always are seen to feel they are just persons in the darkness and always marginalized. The mass of people are required only to raise funds, to organize a procession, or when some issue of  attack or such episodes take place.  At other times they are tacitly expected to “Mind your own business”, and quietly pray, pay and obey.

Recent developments in many religious sects of all brands, the political action discourse in the country have left the silent majority in deep shock. It is a huge majority and a deafening silence. One christian says that in the church in India one has to put heads down in shame at the blatant misuse or abuse of power by the local consecrated leaders at the helm, with the higher-ups not taking action.

What is really disturbing is the deafening silence of the so-called custodians, spokespersons and leaders of religious entities, both hierarchical and lay. No one from recognized national institutions spoke up on for change in the situation.

The national scenario is even more frightening. Four years ago we were given tall promises of less government and more governance. The opposite is actually happening, with the Govt trying to stifle the autonomy of almost every sector – the media, judiciary, social activism, small business, the army, CBI, RBI etc. The list is endless.

Are we rapidly moving towards a megalomaniacal dictatorship in the civil and religious fronts?  Many may argue, what can we  ordinary citizens do?  We need to be aware that till recently democracy was quite alive and kicking on various frounts.   Should we not then rise and show our strength in all possible ways? For to keep motionless is sure death to all our institutions. So it is time to not only reflect and examine but in all possible ways to act.