Temple invite row: Intolerance led to controversy, says AB Ibrahim

Mangaluru, Mar 18: Deputy Commissioner AB?Ibrahim, who is trying to douse the temple festival's invitation row fire, opined that that the controversy raised because of intolerance'.

Stating that there is nothing wrong in printing a Muslim officer's name in the invitation card of a Muzrai temple's car festival, he said that as per the Hindu Endowment Act, non-Hindus should not take part in religious rituals. “But there is no specific rule regarding invitations. This has been conveyed to Puttur MLA Shakuntala Shetty and she too has been convinced,” he told media persons.

"We have been so intolerant that a non-issue is being blown out of proportion. I was special officer for the Dasara festival when I was in Mysuru and I was part of festivals in many Hindu temples as a government representative. No one asked me before printing my name on invitations. It is just much ado about nothing," Ibrahim said.

Recalling the communal harmony in the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, he said there was harmony between Hindus and Muslims, be it the adoration of Bappa Beary in Mulki temple or Ali Chamundi Kshetra in Kumble. He criticised those who are trying to disturb the harmony.

Ibrahim clarified that his name was printed because he is the deputy commissioner and also that his permission had not been taken before printing the same.

“Although I am pained and saddened over the developments regarding the issue, it is my duty to take everybody along,” he said and requested the members of the public to maintain peace and harmony in the district.

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