Let us resolve to not give in to provocation

MLA Ravi Rana and his wife MP Navneet Rana. Pic/Satej Shinde

The Hanuman Chalisa and loudspeakers in mosques controversy may gain traction now that May 3, the date set by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) for removal of loudspeakers from mosques, failing which they said they would play the chalisa on loudspeakers, is drawing near.

The city has seen high drama with political leaders of all dispensations wading into the controversy.

It is evident that the pot is already simmering and any more heat means it will boil over. Central to this mix, though it is the peripheral actors who are making all the statements currently, are the citizens of Mumbai.

Now, it is up to Mumbaikars to behave impeccably, whatever the provocation. Let the law take its course, and respect that.

People must remember that when situations arise and emotions are stoked, whatever be the issue, most politicians play fast and furious when they sense opportunity. Today, creating problems can happen on two levels - in the real space and in the equally powerful virtual world.

When the city is tense or there is violence, the biggest sufferers are the people themselves while those who fanned the flames are behind their doors. It is the common man who pays the highest price.

Infrastructure is often destroyed, public infra paid for with taxes are no longer available for use, families are on edge as life and limb are threatened. The most powerful response is not to fall into any of these traps and to maintain calm and decorum as authorities take decisions.

See through these deliberate designs, do not take any side except that of logic. Dialogue and peaceful, just resolutions are the way forward. Let us make that space together rather than being embroiled in all-consuming fires.