REDISCOVERING DIVINE SIMPLICITY: THE TEN COMMANDMENTS AS A PATH TO SELF-REALIZATION

 

The path to self-realization, as envisioned in the divine framework of God, is inherently simple, natural, pure, and straightforward. It is a road paved with sincerity, compassion, and obedience to the basic tenets of life, such as those enshrined in the Ten Commandments. This path calls for simplicity, humility, and unshakable faith—a marked contrast to the often convoluted and commercialized spiritual journeys that many embark on today, driven by the allure of god-men, rituals, and materialistic interpretations of peace and satisfaction. The beauty of God's way lies in its profound simplicity, emphasizing a direct relationship between the Creator and His creation without unnecessary intermediaries or overly elaborate practices.

The Ten Commandments stand as the bedrock of ethical and spiritual life, offering universal principles that transcend time and culture. They advocate for love, respect, honesty, and devotion—qualities that build a meaningful and peaceful existence. These commandments are neither burdensome nor complex; rather, they serve as a moral compass guiding individuals toward righteousness. Yet, as society advances, we often find ourselves complicating the spiritual life with rituals, ceremonies, and rules that, while not inherently wrong, risk overshadowing the essence of faith and devotion. For example, think of the psychological effect of the emotional Hamartia out of the loud Charismatic ‘alleluias’ intertwined with extra ‘noise’ and music.

A similar scenario unfolded in the time of Jesus when the Pharisees and Scribes imposed a heavy burden of 613 rules and regulations on the Jewish people. These rules, though rooted in religious traditions, became a means of control and a source of spiritual exhaustion. The strict dictates turned the purity of worship into a mechanical process, removing the heartfelt connection with God. Jesus criticized this legalistic approach, calling instead for a return to the simplicity of faith—a life centered on love for God and neighbor.

Fast-forward to today, and we see echoes of this complexity in the multiplication of spiritual practices and the rise of modern "idols." These idols are not limited to statues or images but extend to material possessions, fame, wealth, technology, and even ideologies. In our pursuit of these attachments, we risk losing sight of the divine simplicity that leads to true self-realization. The worship of these modern idols creates a labyrinth of distractions, pulling us away from the essence of spiritual life. The quest for self-gratification, often masked as spiritual fulfillment, turns faith into a commodity and self-realization into a distant mirage.

The proliferation of god-men and spiritual tours further compounds this issue. While many of these individuals and activities aim to provide guidance and solace, they sometimes create dependencies that undermine personal spiritual growth. The reliance on intermediaries can dilute the individual's direct relationship with God, turning what should be a personal and transformative journey into a transactional experience. This trend mirrors the Pharisees' legalism, where human interpretations overshadowed divine simplicity.

True self-realization does not require elaborate rituals or the intervention of others. It begins with introspection, humility, realization and a sincere desire to align one's life with divine principles. The Ten Commandments offer a clear and accessible roadmap for this journey. By honoring these commandments, individuals cultivate virtues such as integrity, gratitude, and compassion. These virtues act as stepping stones toward a deeper understanding of oneself and one's relationship with the Creator.

Moreover, the simplicity of God's path calls for a rejection of modern idols. This does not mean abandoning technology or material possessions but rather using them responsibly and without attachment. It involves recognizing that true peace and satisfaction come not from external sources but from within—a realization that is often obscured by the noise of modern life. Detachment from idols allows individuals to focus on the eternal truths that underpin spiritual life, leading to a sense of fulfillment that no material possession can provide.

In this context, the importance of community and shared worship cannot be overstated. While personal devotion is crucial, the fellowship of like-minded individuals fosters mutual encouragement and accountability. This community should, however, be rooted in simplicity and authenticity, avoiding the pitfalls of showmanship or competition that sometimes plague religious gatherings. The focus should remain on collective growth and mutual support, reflecting the love and unity that God desires for His people.

The message of simplicity in spiritual life also extends to how we approach challenges and uncertainties. Instead of seeking quick fixes or external validations, individuals are encouraged to trust in God's providence and lean on their faith. This trust fosters resilience and a sense of purpose, enabling individuals to navigate life's complexities with grace and confidence.

In conclusion, God's road to self-realization is simple, straightforward, and accessible to all. It is a path that prioritizes love, faith, and obedience over rituals and material attachments. By embracing the Ten Commandments and rejecting the distractions of modern idols, individuals can cultivate a deep and personal connection with the divine. This journey of hope is not about adding more to one's life but about removing the unnecessary layers that obscure the truth. It is a return to the basics, a rediscovery of the simplicity and purity of faith that leads to genuine self-realization and lasting peace.

Pivoting on the Cross: Pope Francis’s Playbook for Spiritual Resilience

 

 Introduction: A Pontiff’s Passion for Sports and Spirituality 

Pope Francis, known for his humility and pastoral warmth, reveals in his autobiography an unexpected hobby dimension of his life: a deep love for sports and particularly his interest in football. His allegiance to the Argentine soccer club San Lorenzo de Almagro —founded by Salesian priest Lorenzo Massa— and finding pride in supporting the team hint at a formative link between faith, community, and play. San Lorenzo is a neighborhood in Buenos Aires. Francis’ support for San Lorenzo ties to his Salesian connections, which influenced his upbringing and perhaps his spirituality. Yet it is basketball, a staple of his youth at the Salesian oratory, that provides a striking metaphor for Christian living. Speaking on basketball, Francis says, the player while dribbling the ball suddenly stops pivoting around a fixed leg, trying to motion himself in diverse directions in order  to pass or free himself to proceed to score the basket. The Pope’s reflection on the “pivot”—a basketball maneuver where a player anchors one foot to change direction—becomes a transitional and spiritual ‘pivot’ analogy: just as athletes pivot to navigate the court, Christians must root themselves in the Cross of Christ to serve others amid life’s challenges. This column explores how this athletic wisdom illuminates the path of discipleship, particularly for priests and religious in an era of tumult and transformation; pivoting while being centred on the Cross of Christ and live lives in service towards others, especially when things seem tough and difficult.

The Art of the Pivot: Lessons from the Court 

Let me explain the basketball term for those unfamiliar. Pivoting in basketball is when a player stops moving but can rotate around one foot to change direction. It's a strategic move to avoid defenders or find a better passing angle. In basketball, the pivot is a moment of strategic recalibration. When a player stops dribbling, plants one foot, and rotates to survey the court, they gain clarity to pass, shoot, or evade defenders. The move requires balance, awareness, and trust in one’s footing. Without that anchored leg, the player risks traveling—a violation—or losing control. The key analogy here is the basketball move where a player stops dribbling, pivots around a fixed leg, and then moves in a new direction. Similarly, life demands moments of pause and reorientation. We relate this maneuver  to being grounded in Christ (the pivot foot) while being able to adjust to life's challenges. Pope Francis relates this to Christians, particularly clergy and religious, needing to pivot around the Cross of Christ, especially in tough times, to serve others.

For Pope Francis, the Cross of Christ is the “fixed foot” around which believers pivot. It is both a source of stability, strategy, adaptability and a catalyst for dynamic movement. Just as the pivot enables athletes to adapt mid-play, the Cross equips Christians to respond to adversity with grace and creativity.

 The Cross as Our Fixed Point: Theology of a Spiritual Pivot 

The Cross stands at the heart of Christian identity, symbolizing sacrifice, redemption, and unconditional love. Jesus clearly directed his disciples: "Take up your cross" (Mt 16:24).  St. Paul writes, “May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Gal 6:14). The Cross is central to Christian identity. The Cross as the fixed point. The Cross represents sacrificial love and salvation. Elaborating on this analogy by connecting the basketball pivot to spiritual life we expand this reflection, mostly for a religious and lay persons. The readers would be interested in how sports metaphors apply to their faith and vocation. The Cross as the pivot point, leads us to discuss the challenges faced by Christians/priests, and how the Cross helps them serve others despite difficulties through practical applications.

Pivoting around it means keeping Christ's sacrifice central, allowing it to guide decisions and actions. When things get tough, instead of moving away, you turn towards the Cross for direction. To pivot around the Cross is to center one’s life on this paradox: strength in weakness, victory in surrender. For clergy and religious, whose vocations are marked by public witness, the Cross is not merely a symbol but a lived reality. It calls them to embrace the “folly” of the Gospel—serving the marginalized, forgiving relentlessly, and prioritizing spiritual wealth over worldly acclaim. 

There is a link  in connecting the pivot to Salesian spirituality, since the Salesians focus on youth, sports, and education. Don Bosco's oratories used sports as a means of evangelization. Pope Francis's father playing basketball at the Salesian oratory shows the environment that shaped him. This ties to the idea that sports teach collaborative teamwork and strategy—qualities applicable to spiritual life. The pivot as a lesson from sports applied to faith. The Salesian tradition, which shaped Pope Francis’s early years, emphasizes joy, youth outreach, and the sanctification of daily life. Sports, in this context, were more than recreation; they were tools for forming character and community. Don Bosco, founder of the Salesians, saw play as a means to teach discipline, teamwork, and trust in God. The pivot, then, becomes a Salesian metaphor for discernment: staying grounded in Christ while engaging the world with agility.

Challenges of Modern Ministry: Why the Pivot Matters 

Why is this important for priests and religious? Priests and religious today face a court crowded with challenges: pressure of secularism, clerical scandals, internal Church issues, sustaining faith, societal and religious polarization, etc. They face burnout in the midst of  declining vocations. The Cross as their anchor helps them stay focused on service and mission. Therefore, there is the  need for a firm foundation. The pandemic amplified these struggles, forcing ministries to “pivot” literally—to virtual Masses, doorstep sacraments, and emergency outreach. Yet even in calmer times, the temptation to drift from the Cross persists. Some cling to rigid traditionalism, refusing to rotate toward new needs; others chase relevance at the cost of Gospel fidelity. 

Pope Francis’s analogy offers a corrective. The spiritual pivot is neither stagnation nor aimless motion. The Cross is not static but a source of dynamic movement. Being rooted allows flexibility in service. It is the art of holding fast to the Cross while turning toward the ever-changing “signs of the times.” For a priest in a dwindling parish, this might mean reviving traditional devotions while embracing social media evangelization. For a nun serving the homeless, it could involve advocating for systemic change without losing sight of individual dignity. . Pivoting allows one to see new opportunities to serve others in need, change tactics if needed, but always rooted in Christ. The Cross isn't just a symbol but a call to action. Pivoting helps in responding dynamically to others' needs, while being rooted in Christ's love to serve effectively. The Cross, as the fixed point, ensures that adaptation never becomes compromise.

Saints as Pivotal Figures: Historical and Modern Examples 

The saints, contemporary priests and nuns made a difference exemplifying this balance, because they kept the Cross central. For example, St. Teresa of Avila’s experience of Christ's presence in the midst of daily sufferings and humiliation, and  St. Francis of Assisi embracing the Cross. Modern clergy and these men and women embody this centrality of the Cross. St. John Paul II, whose motto was “Totus Tuus” (Totally Yours), anchored his papacy in Marian devotion while spearheading ecumenical dialogue and confronting communism. Mother Teresa pivoted around the Cross by seeing Christ’s cry of “I Thirst”  in the “distressing disguise of the poor,” combining contemplative prayer with radical service. Closer to our time, Fr. Damien of Molokai rooted himself in Eucharistic adoration while serving lepers isolated by fear, and Sr. Norma Pimentel, a modern-day advocate for migrants, draws strength from the Cross to defend the vulnerable at the U.S.-Mexico border. 

These figures show that pivoting on the Cross is not passive. It demands courage to face resistance, whether from external critics or internal doubts. As St. Ignatius of Loyola taught, discernment requires freedom to “find God in all things”—a freedom grounded in unwavering love for Christ.

Practical Playbook: Cultivating a Pivotal Spirituality 

How can today’s Christians, especially clergy and religious, practice this pivotal spirituality?  How to cultivate this pivot point in daily life?

1. Anchor in Prayer: Begin each day before a crucifix, asking, “How does the Cross shape my decisions?” Daily prayer before a crucifix, the Liturgy of the Hours and Eucharistic adoration recenter the soul on Christ’s sacrifice. 

2. Examen for Discernment: Reflect nightly  and examine to see where one needs to pivot: Where did I pivot toward or away from the Cross? Identify moments when fear or pride hindered Gospel responsiveness. 

3. Serve at the Peripheries through corporal and spiritual works of mercy: Like Pope Francis’s “field hospital” Church, step into uncharted territory—prisons, online forums, interfaith spaces—while carrying the Cross as a banner of hope. Engage in works of mercy as actions stemming from the Cross. Embrace the 'pivot' moment, rooted in Christ, to serve others with agility and love.

4. Embrace Sacramental Renewal: Confession and the Eucharist (and other Sacraments) restore spiritual balance, much as athletes hydrate and rest. 

5. Community as Coaching: Surround yourself with “teammates”, communal and interfaith fraternity, forums, associations, groups and movements (spiritual directors, lay collaborators, civic bodies) who challenge and support your mission. 

Conclusion: The Game Plan for Gospel Life 

Pope Francis’s basketball analogy invites us to view the Christian life as a divine sport—one where agility and fidelity coexist. In a world that glorifies speed and self-sufficiency, the pivot teaches us to slow down, plant ourselves at the foot of the Cross, and move outward in love. His teachings on the Church as a Mission, going out to the peripheries while pivoting on the Cross, makes sense. The pivot allows turning towards those in need. For priests and religious, this is not a mere strategy but a survival skill. The Cross, as the ultimate fixed point, transforms every trial into a pivot toward resurrection. 

Here is Paul's analogy of athletes in spiritual life: “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.  Therefore, I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize” (1 Cor 9:24-27). As the final buzzer approaches, may we all learn to play the game with the heart of a saint: eyes on the prize, feet grounded in grace, and hands ready to pass the ball of mercy to a world in desperate need of hope. “For the love of Christ impels us” (2 Cor 5:14)—to pivot, to serve, to live.

 

 

 

GENESIS'24 YOUTH FEST AT BANDEL BASILICA

 

     

Bandel Basilica, 17 November 2024: The highly anticipated Genesis'24 event, a youth-centric festival held on 17 November 2024 at the historic Bandel Basilica, was a remarkable day of community engagement, sportsmanship, and spiritual unity organized by the Youth of the Parish (SYM), in collaboration with volunteers, parish council members for youth, and young adults, and completed with remarkable success. The event brought together 21 parishes, fostering a spirit of community, celebration of faith, filled with energy, teamwork and creative expression.   

With the theme, "With God, everything is possible" (Lk 18:27), the festival showcased a dynamic lineup of events, each crafted to resonate with the participants' talents and dedication, which began after a solemn and uplifting Eucharistic celebration in a spirit of togetherness. 

Event Highlights

The youth of Bandel Basilica (SYM) organised this one-day event consisting  of Football (Kingsley Kickoff, 21 teams), Throw ball (Thunder Throws, 10 teams), Badminton (Sacred Smash, Mixed, 10 teams)  and Basketball (Heavenly Hoops, Mixed, 6 teams)  in the Don Bosco School premises.  There were more than four hundred youth who participated and engaged in various activities that celebrated both sportsmanship and artistry. 

The football matches, in particular, captured everyone’s attention, showcasing the extraordinary talent and teamwork of the players. Matches concluded by 5:30 p.m., leading to the much-anticipated closing ceremony.  These events not only tested the participants’ competitive edge but also encouraged them to explore the spiritual and artistic dimensions of their talents. 

Initially the organizers also planned to conduct: Street Play (Psalmistry), Dance (Gospel Grooves),  Singing (Majestic Melody), Open Style Cypher (Divine Dynamics), Photography (Lens of Love). Due to the lack of participants these events were cancelled.  

Community Participation and Spirit 

The collaboration between the youth and other groups ensured seamless execution and inclusivity throughout the day. Volunteers and parish council members played a pivotal role in organizing logistics, welcoming guests, and promoting a sense of belonging among all attendees. 

Participants from various institutions brought energy and enthusiasm, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Matches were intense, with spirited competition and enthusiastic spectators.  The diversity of events and activities reflected the organizers’ dedication to blending faith and fun, making the festival memorable for everyone involved. 

The evening ceremony began with a soulful performance of the Theme song, "In Your Grace", composed by Mrinmoy Murmu, a youth member, inspired by Psalm 139:7-10. 

Thereafter Fr. Siby Joseph Vadakel, SDB, Principal of Don Bosco Bandel and, Fr. John Chalil, Parish Priest of Bandel Basilica, inspired the audience with their words of words of encouragement and appreciation. 

The winners and runners-up in each category were celebrated for their achievements:  Badminton: St. John Boston's Parish Liluah; Throwball: St. Michael's Church, Premnagar; Basketball:   Christ the King Church, Park Circus; Football:  Sacred Heart Church, Burdwan.

The event concluded with a vibrant folk dance, where attendees joined in a joyful chain dance. This celebratory moment was a true testament to the unity and shared joy of the community. 

Genesis'24 proved to be an exemplary event that unified the youth under the shared banner of faith and creativity. The resounding success of the festival highlights the power of community and collective youth effort.  Looking forward, Genesis'24 has set a benchmark for future events, continuing to inspire and uplift the younger generation through such meaningful celebrations. 

 

 

The Dangers of Divination and Misplaced Faith Deliverance: A Reflection on Faith, Psychology and Ethics

 

In the Old Testament the practice of psychics and mediums is described as “an abomination.” The prophet Zechariah warns against false diviners who lead people astray, stating: “ the diviners have lying visions and publish empty dreams and voice misleading nonsense, naturally the people stray like sheep” (Zechariah 9:9-10). This powerful statement captures the essence of human vulnerability when faced with the unknown. Diviners, psychics, and mediums, who claim supernatural insight, often prey on this vulnerability. The Old Testament goes further to label such practices as “an abomination,” underscoring their incompatibility with the worship and honor of God. 

The Catechism of the Catholic Church echoes this stance, admonishing that “all forms of divination are to be rejected”  including “other practices falsely supposed to 'unveil' the future.” These types of divining “conceal a desire for power over time, history, and, in the last analysis, other human beings, as well as a wish to conciliate hidden powers. They contradict the honor, respect, and loving fear that we owe to God alone” (CCC 2116). This teaching serves as a backdrop to a recent and ethically complex case involving a 17-year-old girl allegedly “possessed” by spirits. 

Case Study: Ethical and Psychological Dimensions of "Possession"

A group of ten people from a family brought this young girl, to a priest  for ‘exorcism’ being fully convinced that she is possessed. She is living with her would-be-husband –ten years her senior– with the consent of her own non-Christian parents, for two weeks. After three days of waiting for an appointment, the priest declared her “possessed by 12 spirits,” reportedly driving them out through prayer and advising the use of religious tools such as a Rosary and  other prayers from a Bengali Prayer Book – Amar Sohochor. They brought the Rosary and the Prayer book to me, a priest, to be blessed. I prayed over and blessed them. On speaking with them I came to know that she was told to invite other family members to pray as well, and consequently get baptized. Therefore, this experience led to such a call for Christian family prayers and the encouragement of baptism for non-Christian family members. 

Ethical Concerns: A Veil of Proselytization? 

This seems, to me, a proselytizing process and strategy, which is forbidden by the Church. While spiritual healing is integral to Catholic pastoral care, there are ethical concerns when practices appear to blur the line between genuine care and proselytization. Encouraging the girl’s family to convert under the pretext of spiritual deliverance is problematic. Such actions risk contravening the principle of respecting individuals' freedom of conscience and belief.  In fact, the future-husband, a rationalist, does not endorse such ‘blind bhut-possession’ theory, saying, the girl is ‘acting’ that way, due to other factors which she is not disclosing.

A Psychological Perspective 

Which are these factors ? I tried to discuss and counsel her on the first day, in finding out the possibility of those factors, and  make her understand, accept, and act accordingly. She was advised to go back to her parental home, rest and relax. I suspect, she is going through a fear complex, unable to express and share with anybody. There might be a certain hysteria or hallucination. Therefore, the girl’s behavior, interpreted by her family and this priest as ‘possession’, raises questions about underlying psychological or sociocultural factors: 

Age and Marital Circumstances: The fact is the boy is ten years elder to her. At 17, the girl may not be emotionally or physically prepared for marriage, especially with a partner ten years her senior. 

Fear and Trauma: Her condition could stem from fear of sexual encounters, coupled with malnourishment and sleep deprivation. 

Mental Health Considerations: Symptoms such as hysteria or hallucinations could indicate an underlying psychological disorder rather than spiritual possession.  Her husband's rationalist perspective underscores the need for medical and psychological evaluation over supernatural explanations.  She needs counseling and mental support.

Seeking Balanced Interventions 

This case highlights the importance of distinguishing between spiritual care and psychological support. The young girl’s behavior might reflect internalized stress, fear, or even societal expectations rather than supernatural possession. Counseling, mental health support, and open dialogue are critical to addressing her challenges.  Furthermore, the Church's role is to focus on compassionate care rather than coercive or potentially manipulative strategies. This aligns with Christ's example of meeting individuals where they are, respecting their dignity and autonomy. 

Zechariah's words remind us of the dangers of misplaced faith in diviners who exploit fear and ignorance. Similarly, the Catechism warns against the desire for control over hidden powers. In this case, ethical and psychological dimensions call for a thoughtful response that prioritizes the girl’s well-being over spiritual sensationalism.  Addressing such situations requires an interdisciplinary approach, blending theological wisdom, psychological insight, and ethical discernment. Above all, respect for human dignity must remain at the forefront of any intervention. 

Feast of the Holy Rosary at Bandel Basilica

 

The solemn celebration of the Feast of the Holy Rosary was observed at Bandel Basilica on the 9^th  and 10^th of November, 2024, with faithful pilgrims gathering in reverence to honor Our Lady of the Holy Rosary. This annual event, significant for its spiritual depth and community engagement, attracted devotees from various linguistic backgrounds especially from the Parish, from the Aspirantates and from other nearby parishes and villages, who united in prayer and worship.

On Saturday evening at 5 p.m. the Eucharistic celebration was presided over by the Most Rev. Thomas D’Souza, Archbishop of Kolkata, who delivered a heartfelt homily focused on the theme of saying “YES” to God. Reflecting on Mary’s “Fiat” at the Annunciation, the Archbishop encouraged the congregation to embrace a similar openness in their own lives, responding affirmatively to God’s call, extending compassion to those in need, and nurturing personal growth in faith—a journey that begins at Baptism and continues through the reception of each Sacrament. The liturgy was enriched by readings led by members from diverse groups, with the Prayer of the Faithful organized by the Mothers’ Sodality and the Offertory dance procession by the Ferrando hostel  girls.

After the final Mass, a grand Eucharistic procession took place, following an organized route led by seminarians, youth groups, and parishioners, with the Blessed Sacrament and the Archbishop carried on a vehicle surrounded by flower girls. The procession, orderly and reverent, proceeded with pilgrims lining the route through the street, praying the Rosary and singing hymns in devotion setting a reflective tone that was carried into the solemn procession led by the Altar servers with a cross and candles.

Devotees followed in a procession, with the statue of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary honored by the Mothers’ Sodality, lay parishioners, youth group, priests and aspirants from Don Bosco Seminary and other religious sister communities. Special hymns, including “Khristo Debota,” were sung as part of the worship, creating a vibrant and unifying experience for all present. The Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament marked a solemn moment for attendees, who were moved by the prayerful atmosphere created by the Eucharistic celebration. In his  inspirational talk before the final benediction, Fr. Roshan Tirkey SJ, emphasized on Mary being our Mother, given to us through St. John at Calvary, and that as her good sons and daughters, we respect her as our closest dear Mother. Mrs. Agnes James, a Sunday Catechist, expressed heartfelt gratitude in a vote of thanks, recognizing the efforts of volunteers, religious sisters, and parish groups who made the event a spiritual success.

Sunday’s liturgical program on 10^th November included Masses in Hindi, Bengali, and English, reflecting the multicultural and multilingual composition of the congregation. The first service at 6:30 a.m. was conducted in Hindi, followed by Bengali Mass at 9:00 a.m., presided over by the Arch Bishop, wherein 16 boys and girls received the First Communion. The Prelate spoke of the gift of life of God  which is given to each Christian through the Eucharist, is to be lived through self-giving. There was an English Mass at 11:00 a.m.

The Feast of the Holy Rosary at Bandel Basilica was a deeply moving experience for all, inspired by Mary’s own faith, Fiat and surrender. The two-day event concluded with a final hymn dedicated to Our Lady, and all the attendees left with renewed faith and a sense of community solidarity.

The over-422 years old Bandel Shrine distinctively contributes to the spiritual growth of the ‘pilgrims’. Built in 1599 by the Portuguese, the Bandel Church dedicated to Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, holds the miraculous statue of Our Lady of Happy Voyage, which has become the ‘faith-focus’ for the faithful and the pilgrims.

 

AN OPEN LETTER TO SMT. MAMATA BANERJEE The Chief Minister, cum the Health and Police Minister of W. Bengal

Smt. Mamata,

 

In an earlier open letter, I congratulated you for taking oath for the past consecutive terms as the Chief Minister of Bengal, hoping that you would preserve the federal state’s democratic governance with oath-laden honesty, sincerity and dedication, and stopping the RSS-fed regressive ideology and communal juggernaut promoted by the BJP.

 

You seemed to be a pragmatic, a down-to-earth politician, trying to push back divisive politics, in order to safeguard the “secular ethos”. You have the constitutional responsibility to protect everyone, appeasing no one. Remember, all communities have helped you to govern Bengal once more. Your ‘politics of populism’ and the multi-faceted welfare schemes have given you the people’s mandate.

 

Before everything else, it is time now to handle the present crisis starting with what has emerged after the heinous murder of a Doctor at R. G. Kar. The ‘fonsh’ and the fire are evident. We are seeing mass protest movement with such angst and total no-confidence against your government.  You as the Health Minister, please take up the moral responsibility for this killing and all the corruptions in the health and police departments. Otherwise, your government will surely be crippled by your own gross mismanagement of the situation. Kindly, follow the philosophy of Raj dharma. Acknowledge your deliberate negligence of duty and apologize to the people. Your humility will save from any mistake you make on the way. Your ‘welfarism’ policy and the ‘politics of populism’ have run its course. For people now, enough is enough. Get it clear!

 

As a Banglar meye, protect all people of Bengal from all ‘evils’ that prowl before your eyes and under your nose. You know them all.  Keep Bengal corrupt-free, healthy and united. And for this, here below are the DOs and DON’Ts that I recommend you to follow:

 

DOs :

 

1.      Put the systemic administration right, with law and order: stop all violences and acts that inflict deaths and distress, and divide communities.

2.      Directly intervene with the agitating junior doctors and sort out the issues; give good hearing to the valid demands.

3.      Let the Police do their job independently, do not patronize them. Bring back law and order in the state, immediately.

4.      Dismiss and suspend corrupt officers and other bureaucrats who do not do their duties.

5.      Initiate an urgent process and plan through the party decision, to handle the R. G. Kar  crisis with a sincere heart.

6.      Stop ‘political repression’ over those who do not align to your policy.

7.      Accept the fact that there is a widespread discontent against the TMC government at the grassroots level; an anti-incumbency trend mostly around the local Trinamul leaders and units; disaffection with Trinamul syndicates, extortions, commission cuts, Dadas, mafia Mastans (musclemen) and other anti-socials. 

8.      Curb the syndicates, dangabaji and goondagiri at every level.

9.      Clean up your party and the government; stop all kinds of corruption, coercion, criminality and mismanagement by your tier-leaders at various levels.

10.  Close all bomb-gun-factories in Bengal, and stop all smuggling of arms from outside.

11.  Get rid of the scam tainted party leaders and other corrupt colleagues around you.

12.  Stop the bribe (cut-money) which has become a part of your political system.

13.  Work with a systemic approach, through the SWOT strategy, having a Goal, Objective, Action Plan, and above all a Mission.

14.   Be a credible leader for Bengal whom all can look upto.

15.  Uplift the subalterns: ST, SC, OBC, Dalits, etc. Be a Mamatadebi for all sections of society, especially women and the vulnerable groups.

16.   Revive the educational and medical culture of Bengal through standard and secure institution with monitored quality and good infrastructure.

17.  Place yourself at the forefront of truth, honesty, humility and simplicity.

18.  Deliver on the promises you make.

19.  Form a new team of lieutenants for the future, delivering on governance and dealing with corruption from the very grassroot level.  

20.  You need to do course corrections too, keeping away personal ‘ego’   and give up authoritarianism.

21.  Stop all  arrogant behaviors and the increasing strong-arm tactics of your party leaders. 

22.  Implement and complete with honesty and transparency all the schemes (central and state) that are sanctioned.

23.  Build infrastructures for income and employment generation, through industrialisation. Get land for it.

24.  Suspend for good all corrupt and convicted ministers, MLAs and MPs.

25.  Make district and panchayat administration totally transparent, to oversee the implementation of the projects: The National Food Security Act, Shabuj Sathi, Kanyashree,  Ruposhree, Rural Development, Drinking water connection, Duare Sarkar, Didike bolo, SC/ST/OBC/BPL certificate distribution, etc.

26.  As the symbol of “Ma-Mati-Manush”, be a collective conscience of people of Bengal.

27.  If you are inspired by the ideals of St. (Mother) Teresa of Calcutta, allow her compassion and love shine through your honest political services in Bengal.

 

 

DON’Ts :

 

1.      Do not indulge into toxic politics of communal polarization.

2.      Do not allow your grassroot leaders to use threat tactics and take law in their hands in connivance with the local police. 

3.      Do not prevent the local Thanas to work independently and keep law and order in the region.

4.      Do not allow the inclusive cultural heritage of Bengal to be destroyed by the Hindutva invasion.

5.      Do not do politics of ‘tokenism’, doling out just a superficial ‘pleasing taste’.

6.      Do not divide and dissatisfy the intellectual cultural elite and the learned of Bengal.

7.      Do not lure non-party intellectuals and activists in Bengal. Respect their independent views.

8.      Do not do minority/clubs-appeasement, with Puja bonus, money, footballs and such freebees. Serve all the 91 million people of Bengal. 

9.      Do not do something that your people will revolt against.

10.  Do not allow your ministers and party leaders to make illegal money either for the party or self (e.g. alleged Coal scam, Sand scam, Cow scam, Cut-money, Sarada, Narada, and the recent alleged Health Scam, etc.).

11.  Do not fall into nepotism and appeasement politics.

12.  Do not create a cult figure invincibility for blind followers/partymen and women.

13.  Don’t be too impulsive, while working by instinct, discern well for the decisions to be made.

14.   Do not be ‘cheap’ in your speeches. Invest time and preparation, integrated with more ‘stuff’ that are built on research and reason. Let them not be unorganized ‘freebees’. Keep the dignity of statesmanship.

 

Yours sincerely,

(Soroj Mullick)  

A common citizen of Bengal