Dear Editor,
The uproar over Gurus and his army of followers taking the law into their hands have once again shown the clout that India’s godmen possess. They thought they were indomitable until the law caught up with them for financial irregularities (FERA), sexual abuse and even murder. From Asharam Bapu to Sant Rampal and Nithyananda Swami, they all end up with the list of fake Babas. Gurmeet Ram Rahim is the prime and latest example, who is finally sent to prison after flashy life in palatial ashram. India sees a long inventory of Godman. They do politics that wielded authority but not divinity. No wonder these invincible holy men enjoy preferential treatment from government and quest for unholy racket.
Recently Sri Sri Ravi Shankar visited Assam and Arunachal Pradesh for indigenous people’s conference to kindle hope for peace. The high profile Guru is welcomed by none other than the Chief Justice of Guwahati High court at the airport. The former rebel leaders of ULFA, NSCN(IM) and civil society groups were interacted with him for finding a final solution to NE region. The spiritual guru is optimistic of brokering peace. But Paresh Baruah has another idea and he has out rightly refused any form of peace talk. It is not known whether ULFA Chief consulted before such an offer. This is not the first time that The Art of Living Guru talks hollow promises.
Yours,
Kamal Baruah,
Guwahati