The statistics on the burgeoning places of worship (editorial “Land grab in god’s name,” Oct. 6) is more shocking than interesting. The Supreme Court order banning the construction of places of worship in public spaces has come at the right time. Besides causing roadblocks and reducing pavement space, encroachment of public space contributes to pollution and the accumulation of solid waste. Governments should find a way of demolishing with tact and persuasion unauthorised places of worship which already exist.
N. Sadasivan Pillai,
Guntakal
Not all places of worship were built on encroached lands. In some instances, roads were laid after the places of worship were built. While land acquisition was easier when it came to dealing with residential and commercial establishments, it became tough when land was to be taken back from religious trusts. This is not to discount the fact that goons run their business in the name of god. Money is collected on various pretexts. Loudspeakers are used and shamianas put up on roads causing inconvenience to people. There is a need to look at the issue dispassionately. It is equally imperative that we respect people’s sentiments.
Raghu Seshadri,
Chennai
Illegal encroachments, as rightly pointed out in the editorial, are encouraged by collusive politicians with the authorities remaining mute spectators. It is surprising that people — irrespective of their faith — fail to realise that a religious place built on dishonest foundations cannot help them in attaining their sacred goals.
Balvinder Singh,
Chandigarh
Why all this hullabaloo over illegal places of worship across the country? God marketing is a long sustaining and prospering self-employment venture in India. It is less capital-oriented, less risky and tax-exempt business. Even the economic downturn has not touched the business which enjoys patronage of all hues.
Vaikom Madhu,
Kottayam
