The insider outsider tussle continues……..

Image source: The Times of India

The recent incident of a sudden clash that happened in Merces Goa among few local goons and tourists from Maharashtra was a shocking one. The village that challenged its image of past arrogance and transformed itself as a peaceful place saw history repeat itself. This was discussed widely with great concerns. The Mhadei water dispute continues to threaten peaceful relations between Goa and Karnataka. This could have been a spark for differences between Goa and Maharashtra. But amidst all these concerns the villagers played the peacemaker rather than provoke further arguments. They chose to question the violent behavior of people like them while providing a protective shelter to those who seemed less like them. With this there was an unstoppable appreciation of their peace loving response.

Well this certainly needs to be lauded. But amidst the entire sweet flavor the grapes continue to be slightly sour. This could have certainly been discussed to the benefit of both or either ignored peacefully just like the response after the violence. Even as people avoid the muscle tussle they choose to weigh the greatness of one’s human qualities to create a propaganda of labeling oneself as an example of peace while questioning the destructive behavior of the other. This creates a sort of covert aggression wherein the need to maintain good relationships is secondary, while the hype of showcasing one’s peacemaker quality is the primary concern. It is not about we are one but rather about who is greater than the other in terms of their human attributes.

It is a good attitude to promote human values in society. But one needs to be mindful to know when this campaign like behavior could actually be leading to hostility towards a person. This will ensure that the larger concern of harmony is not endangered. Goodwill should be practiced for the benefit of both and not just one.