Introduction
In a tragic incident that sent shockwaves through the state of Kerala, a series of blasts rocked a convention center in Kalamassery during a prayer meeting of Jehovah Witness believers on the morning of October 29. The explosions resulted in the loss of three lives, including two women and a 12-year-old girl, while leaving around 50 people seriously injured.
Jehovah Witnesses
The Jehovah's Witnesses, a global Christian cult-like group known for their controversial practices, were gathered to share their beliefs and teachings. The group, with approximately 8 million followers worldwide, maintains a presence in India with 56,000 ministers responsible for spreading their message and teachings, often engaging in door-to-door evangelism and forced conversion of non-believers.
The Allegations and Legal Troubles
The case had its first breakthrough when a former member of the group, who had left in 2017, came forward to surrender to the police, claiming responsibility for planning and executing the attack. According to the individual, the Jehovah's Witnesses have a history of promoting anti-national sentiments among their followers, with a particular focus on influencing school-going children. Allegations include teachings that dissuade members from feeling any obligation to their country, discouraging military service, and even encouraged members not to partake in meals with people who were not members.
The group has also faced legal issues in the US for these specific problems, including their refusal to partake in patriotic and militaristic duties and even refuse blood transfusion and have been accused of having policies and culture that help to conceal cases of sexual abuse within the organization. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in 2000 banned their primary legal body in India, 'Watch Tower-India,' from receiving any foreign funds due to its actions, which were deemed likely to result in religious disharmony in India.
Challenges in Kerala: Infiltration of Radical Ideologies
This incident also raises questions about the presence of radical ideologies within the state of Kerala. Despite its widespread education, the state has witnessed the infiltration of anti-national and anti-social ideas and groups.
A 2018 report by India Today revealed that several Madrasas in Kerala were operating through funding from the Middle East and were indoctrinating young children with the concept of a global caliphate and teaching them not to adhere to the Indian rule.
There are numerous cases of ISIS modules being busted in Kerala. During the recent Israel-Hamas conflict, a Kerala based company made headlines after it publicly announced its decision not to renew its contract for supplying uniforms to the Israeli Police.
These are just some of the hundreds of cases that are busted every year in Kerala and double that go undiscovered.
Political Controversy: Mashal's Participation and Allegations
Furthermore, a video went viral showing Hamas leader Khaled Mashal's virtual participation in a pro-Palestine rally. This event has led to calls for action by the BJP against the organizers and participants, highlighting the influence of radical organizations in the region.
Union Minister and senior BJP leader V. Muraleedharan called for a probe into "terror activities against Christian gatherings," while Kerala BJP president K. Surendran said the incident should be seen in the backdrop of the "pro-Palestine and pro-Hamas stance taken by the mainstream parties in the state."
Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar said innocent people would pay the "price of appeasement politics" of the Congress and the CPI(M).
Conclusion
As investigations into the blasts at the Kerala prayer meeting continue, it is crucial to address both the immediate security concerns and the broader issues surrounding potentially divisive ideologies that may find their way into various communities.
In conclusion, the tragic events in Kerala highlight the importance of addressing radical ideologies and potential threats while preserving the principles of religious freedom and communal harmony in our diverse society. It is essential for authorities and society to work together to ensure the safety of all citizens and maintain the delicate balance between faith, nationalism, and political considerations.
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