VOICE AGAINST TERRORISM: Schoolchildren and members of Harmony India and Sisters of the Islamic Society at the Marina on Saturday. — Photo: S. Thanthoni

CHENNAI: Schoolchildren, women and other participants assembled near the Gandhi Statue on the Marina on Saturday evening to condemn the recent bomb blasts in Mumbai and other acts of terrorism. "Let's not give in to terror. Let's stand united," read a banner held aloft by the participants. More moving was the message "Children demand a safe world."

The participants were brought together by Harmony India (HI) and the Sisters of the Islamic Society (SIS) for a meeting where they took a pledge that they would work towards establishment of peace in the country. "We strongly condemn all acts of terrorism, committed in any part of the world and in whatever form," the members declared.

The meeting was also to express solidarity with the families of blast victims. Stressing the need for unity was the message, "United we stand, divided we fall" and "Say yes to peace and harmony."

Explaining the programme's objective, A. Faizur Rahman, HI executive committee member said, "We, Muslims, do not support violence in the name of religion."

`Act of cowardice'

Condemning the Mumbai blasts, the Prince of Arcot, Nawab Mohammed Abdul Ali, called for greater vigil against acts of terrorism. "Every section of society should strongly condemn terrorism which is an act of cowardice and savagery." The culprits should be brought to justice, without fear or favour, at the earliest.

A thorough, fair and impartial probe into the blasts was called for. He urged the people to rally against acts of terrorism, which threatened the unity of a pluralistic and democratic India. No religion preached violence and killing of innocent people, he said.

N. Ram, Editor-in-Chief, The Hindu , said the important and solemn occasion was to stress the message that people should not be divided by communal and terrorist forces.

"We express our solidarity to the families of the victims of the outrageous terrorist attack." He said terrorism was being committed not only by individuals and organisations, but also by the State as was seen in West Asia where an anti-human terrorist State was supported by imperialism.

Other speakers, including Naz Fathima, coordinator, SIS and Tajunnisa, a member of SIS, emphasised the need for upholding the values of peace. A two-minute silence was observed to pay homage to the victims of the Mumbai blasts. A peace walk up to the lighthouse was undertaken.

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