Book of Integration Council New - Ministry of Home Affairs

It is very unfortunate to note that some people indulge in talking about
vulnerability of particular sections of the society while we should be concerned
about the security, safety and development of all. It is a misfortune that the
country is unable to arrive at a consensus to strictly deal with the challenges of
terrorism. The individuals and organizations showing leniency towards the
terrorists and disruptive elements need to be identified and isolated. A clear line
must be drawn between those who support and those who do not support our
fight against terriorism.
The entire western world has taken up vigorous campaign against terrorism.
Many developed nations which have been champions of human rights did not
hesitate in enacting stringent laws to deal with terrorism. However, many
individuals and organizations in our country, in the name of community, religion
or protection of human rights provide direct or indirect support to such elements.
This also demoralizes our security forces.
I would like to emphasize that we need to strengthen the hand of our
security agencies and the police force. Extra-ordinary challenges need extraordinary
responses. It is most unfortunate that the nation not only lacks
determination to strictly deal with terrorism, but also does not have any clear
policy and programme to prevent our youth from falling in to the trap of
indoctrination and joining terrorist out fits. A stringent law is required not only
to punish the perpetrators of terrorism, but also to prevent our educated being
drawn in to terrorist ideology.
4. Communal Harmony and other elements contributing towards
national integration :
Gujarat is keen on maintaining social harmony and peace by focusing on
the welfare and development of all its citizens. The state believes in justice to
all and appeasement of none. The state has maintained law and order and
communal peace. Many religious festivals and occasions have been celebrated
peacefully. The Rathyatra of Ahmedabad and rest of the state which, in the
past, witnessed communal riots on several occasions have passed off peacefully
in recent years from 2003 to 2008. Muslims and Hindus co-operated with one
another in celebrating the festivals.
Even after grave provocation of serial bomb blasts in Ahmedabad and
recovery of number of live bombs in different parts of Surat City, 5.5 crore
citizens of Gujarat maintained peace and showed great resolve to fight terrorism.
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