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violence are in fact ignorant of indirect violence perpetrated in the background of Naxalism, which is again a danger to our economy and society. The differences between the rich and the poor are considerably widened. While on the one hand there is an abject poverty where majority of the population is deprived of even a square meal a day, on the other hand there is a display of wealth and consumerism by the wealthy, leading to provocation.
Agriculture is the backbone of India's development. If a farmer is compelled to commit suicide under the fear of heavy debt, it would imply that the very foundation is shaken. The farmers of Punjab have also taken cue along with those of Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra in resorting to suicidal acts. It is seen that the violence in the form of many facets is emerging in family life and in society at large. Violence breeds crime. Let us admit that alcoholism is a major vice in perpetrating most of the crimes. It is a major source of revenue for the Government. Total prohibition seems to be a distant dream. These factors have contributed for the mushrooming growth of liquor shops, just as any other store. Despite the resistance put forth by the masses the Government is apathetic to the reality.
During our course of Ahimsa Yatra in villages and towns of Punjab we have our selves observed that men folks move in inebriated condition. The women folks and the children struggle with the domestic problems. Let us all admit that the Government would never be in a position to change the vices of drinking. It can however take stern measures to impose prohibition. There was a time when persons from the various strata of life have made concerted efforts to resolve the issues and provide directives in bringing changes in the society. However in the present situation the decision taking authority is vested with the Government who manages at the top level. It is not clear as how far the persons at the helm of affairs are in a position to contemplate on the problems which have plagued the society.
Notwithstanding if the people at the helm of the affairs share the views of educationist, sociologist, economist, psychologist, writer, journalist and scientist in reforming the society, I am confident, it can certainly pave the way in right direction to establish healthy management of the society. In fact efforts are not as per the expectations. It is expected that we contemplate the problem consciously.
MANY JAINS ARE SILENTLY SUPPORTING MODI
Many Jains who are silent and supporting Modi are unaware how they are harming their own heritage. RSS and Modi Government complaining about Muslim Vote bank but playing same strategy. Secretly all Government employees in Gujarat have been influenced to become member of RSS to support and carry out their agenda. The same efforts are being carried in M.P. Even if it is illegal, with the help of over Zealous party workers all politicians are securing their seats. Instead of vote bank Gujarat Government is working from inside with effective chain of command. So, no wonder, Modi has winning hand. With this strategy Modi has kept all Jains in his left pocket. However may be now Jains are feeling the bite and things might change. The following is the MUST READ article for all JAINS. Written by - Prominent Historian Romilla Thapar groups.yahoo.com/group/jainhistory/message/722
This is how RSS, BJP and Sangh Parivar is playing religious card in politics. May be Business class Jains either ignorance of their heritage or being assimilated in so-called Hindu fold are helpless and keeping silence. However for such a neglect future generation Jains will pay heavy price. Already with present conversion Bill more than 50 Jain religious institution in Gujarat are in trouble. So every one can ponder and plan their strategy. Politics is the only viable alternative to secure our religious freedom. Definitely, all over India in different states there are Independent Jain M.Ps if they could bring such issues and unite we could form effective alliance. Courtesy: SHAN PARISA
SHRI DIGAMBAR JAIN TEMPLE AT BANGKOK
It is heartening to note that Shri Digambar Jain Samaj, Bangkok, Thailand has recently completed the construction of a 3 storey townhouse property for "Shri 1008 Mahavir Digambar Jain Mandir", at house # 143/3, near K. Building Apartment, Soi 45 (Soi Putha Osoth), Chareon Krung (New) Road, Bangkok. It is indeed a memorable event and a milestone for the growth of Jainism in Thailand and for all Digambar Jains living in Thailand for past several years. The Jin Bimb Vedi and prayer hall are on the 2nd Floor. The space is more than adequate for the current size of Digambar Jain community. Even though, both sects are followers of same Tirthankers and Jain philosophy and have jointly observed all major Jain festivals in the past and will continue to do so in future as well, it was felt during past 2-3 years by Digambar Jain community in Thailand to have their own Jin Mandir owing to the fact that Digambar Jin Bimb is Vitraagi (without any adoration) and the method of worshipping and Pujan vidhi is also different from other sects.
There are over 450 Jain families living in Thailand, mostly in Bangkok, for past several years. Out of them, about 70-80 are Digambar Jain families and the rest are Shwetamber families and they have their Derasar in the vicinity, built few years ago. Majority of the Jains are in the Gems and Jewelry business. In April 2004, current President of all India Digambar Jain Organisation, Shri Nirmal Kumar Sethi, had visited Bangkok and had inspired the Bangkok Digambar Jains to construct a temple for the Digambar Jains. On 5th and 6th September this year, on the auspicious occasion of Das Lakshan Parv, Digambar Jain community took out a very gracious procession from existing -Jinalay location to the recently renovated Digambar Jain Mandir with vidhivat pratisthapana of Shri 1008 Mahavir Swami's panch dhatu Jin Bimb in the new Mandir. It was a truly historical event for all Jains. Courtesy: Pramod M. Jain, DJF Committee Member
Mobile #: +(6681) 8211739, E-Mail: pmjain@hotmail.com
JAIN CENTER, AN UNIQUE STRUCTURE FOR RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES AT NEW YORK
An unique facility for the entire Jain community of America, known as 'Jain Center' has been built recently at New York to pray, meditate, worship and hold religious activities. The entire structure
http://jainsamaj.org/magazines/ahimsatimesshow.php?id=105
05/18/2011
