Tragic Events in Pakistan

August 1, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Pakistan has been hit with successive tragedies lately resulting in enormous loss of precious lives.

Earlier, there were significant fatalities from the air crash near Islamabad. While the people were grieving over the aviation mishap, the country is swept with massive flooding and more than 1500 people reportedly lost their lives.

The flooding is expected to worsen with thousands displaced and millions facing life disruptions due to power outages and transportation problems.

Pakistani government appears to have deployed its military for rescue operation. It’s challenging to deal with mass mobilization for any emergency crew. The Pakistani forces are apparently doing their best in saving lives.

In addition, the United States logistic support in this regard expedites the relief effort. The major concerns during natural disasters are the spread of diseases and the populace exodus to the safety zones.

Aid workers involved in minimizing casualties have a daunting task in reaching the victims because of the limited access and air lifting survivors often delays the progress.

It’s a horrendous humanitarian endeavor and the people of Pakistan are courageously enduring the aftermath despite the natural constraints in delivering the urgently required services.

United Nations are presumably engaged in providing the appropriate assistance that would not only alleviate the burden on the local governments but also maximize the restoration capabilities.

The people of Pakistan deserve global attention in the economic and social development sharing the status with numerous developing nations around the world.

As such Pakistan has been held hostage by the terror networks prompting ongoing military intervention and continuous violence through frequent suicide bombings render survival impossible for the peaceful majority within the country.

Any other incidents along with natural calamities exacerbate the situation especially for the millions at the demographic bottom experiencing critical economic condition.

The Pakistani government is faced with eliminating terrorism and rebuilding the country amid unpredictable catastrophes on its shores.

Pakistan is long overdue for a new beginning with peaceful existence now and in the future.

It’s imminent and the governing authorities could enable the onset sooner by prioritizing the citizens’ plight through divestments from excess military expenditure to economy, education and social structure.

In terms of the current crisis, consolidating the resources including the United States and UN contributions towards different humanitarian needs in the grim moment could perhaps yield the desirable outcome.

International Red Cross and other U.N. humanitarian programs might greatly impact the deteriorating environment in containing the rising death toll from the severe floods that has seemingly affected many provinces.

Please rush your affordable and generous donations to the International Red Cross and other recognized U.N. humanitarian agencies to help the people of Pakistan.

We offer our sincere condolences to the victims’ families mourning on the unfortunate events in the past week.

More importantly, there is hope for the struggling population braving the harsh realities as they are not forgotten in the commitment to end human suffering.

On that positive note, wishing strength and optimism to the people of Pakistan in overcoming the multitude difficulties at present.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Human Tragedy

July 19, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Condolences to the families mourning the loss of life from different tragic events.

The recent train crash in West Bengal, India with reportedly 61 people dead in the accident is regrettable.

In other incidents, terrorism taking toll on human life is the norm in certain parts of the world.

The bomb blasts in July 2010 alone has claimed many innocent lives –

Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran…in July 2010 is worthy of condemnation as often the civilians are the victims in the terror related violence.

Freedom along with social and economic opportunities would substantially deter the terror recruitment among the desolate youth population hired for committing horrendous crime against their fellow humans.

Evidently, the citizens in these regions unanimously favor the divestments from prolonged wars towards social and economic development.

Peaceful resolutions focused on economic progress would enormously benefit everyone involved in the global terrorism era.

Terror networks successfully engage the impoverished segment of the population under the pretext of improving their life and the lack of education among the terror recruits is a huge advantage to them.

Accordingly, the militants and the terror organizations regularly attack schools and the educational institutions to deprive the youth from proper education.

Investments in drones, bombs and sophisticated artillery thus far might have eliminated the crucial targets. However, terrorism never dissipates despite the relentless military intervention due to the underlying hindrances in human existence.

Besides participation in the governance through democratic process, the overwhelming majority in these nations seek basic requirements such as clean drinking water, healthy environment to live in modest conditions enabled by agriculture and industrial growth .

Unless these issues are addressed effectively which is not possible by a dysfunctional government, the terror networks will continue to exist as a parallel governing authority holding the people hostage to their violent agenda.

Empowering people with necessary economic and human rights is the best alternative to the military options that are increasingly alienating the local population from the Western interests.

Perhaps, the nations combating terrorism could consolidate their resources and aim to alleviate the suffering through peaceful means.

Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Southern Poverty Law Center – Promoting Tolerance, Acceptance and Social Equality

July 18, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

My sincere apologies to the following individuals for the delay in responding to their request.

Nobel Laureate and Author Toni Morrison (The First African American to win the Nobel Prize for Literature) – Congratulations! On this phenomenal achievement. In addition, thank you for your kind remarks in the Certificate of Appreciation.

Hon. Senator George McGovern (Former Democratic Presidential Candidate)

Renowned Author John Grisham – and,

Last but not the least – The respectable Harry Sarazin – Special Agent FBI (Ret.) – One of the first FBI agents assigned to the Mississippi Burning case.

It’s to acknowledge your call for support to this organization founded by the eminent Chief Trial Counsel, Morris Dees stating that:

SPLC – Southern Poverty Law Center – Fighting Hate, Teaching Tolerance and Seeking Justice.

“The single most effective organization in fighting hate groups in the courtroom and teaching tolerance and acceptance in the classroom.”

The Chief Trial Counsel, Morris Dees’ accomplishments testify his dedication in promoting tolerance and social justice. It’s highly commendable and deserve the necessary aid.

Despite significant progress in this respect, there is still a great requirement to spread the positive attributes of human nature – mutual understanding, respect and unity.

Humanity benefits by treating one another as human beings first prior to any other denomination.

Tolerance comes from natural empathy. Unfortunately, misconception supersedes better knowledge about a particular race, religion or gender and their lifestyle orientation.

For knowledge demands patience, sincere learning and proper application in life.

Mankind easily identify differences than recognizing commonalities among them with or without the realization on the self-inflicted miseries through wars, hate crimes, and social upheavals.

Education focused on appreciation rather than denunciation about people and culture would help the society to embrace uniqueness in the diverse creation.

All are created equal and have the inalienable right to freedom without being subject to any injustice mainly oppression, persecution and other discriminatory practice.

The civil rights attorney Morris Dees’ long journey has witnessed the anomalies in the struggle for fairness.

Nevertheless, the successful outcomes reflect his resolve as well as the commitment towards social equality.

If you wish to extend your support to this organization, please send your donations to:

Southern Poverty Law Center
400 Washington Avenue
P.O.Box 548
Montgomery, AL 36177-9621

Best Wishes for more SPLC triumphs and the humanitarian goal in bringing people together.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Urgent Medicaid Support Required for People with Disabilities

June 25, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The organization dedicated to helping children with disabilities made the following plea and requested the U.S. Senators from both sides of the aisle to consider reviving the bill and approve the federal Medicaid funding to the states.

One cannot ignore the urgency on this important measure.

Hopefully the GOP Senators would heed to the call for assistance from the most vulnerable members in the society, the children and pass the legislation on humanitarian grounds, if not as a constitutional responsibility.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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Fri, June 25, 2010 12:34:38 PM
URGENT: Tell your Senators to do the right thing

From: “Katy Beh Neas, Easter Seals”

Easter Seals: Creating life-changing solutions so that people with disabilities can live, learn work and play.

Dear Padmini,

Vital health care services for people with disabilities are at stake.

Urge your Senators to do the right thing for people with disabilities by passing the Medicaid funding extension.

Last night, the Senate was just three votes short of passing critical Medicaid support for people with disabilities.

If the Senate does not approve additional federal Medicaid funding to the states, they will be forced to cut benefits and services for people with disabilities and chronic illnesses.

We came so close last night. Every message from Easter Seals supporters like you will make a difference when the Senate takes this up again in the next few days.

Act now! Urge your Senators to protect people with disabilities by voting to extend this enhanced federal Medicaid funding!

Medicaid is a lifeline for children and adults with disabilities. Because of the health care they get through the program, they are able to be successful in school, keep a job and live independent lives.

Thanks to Medicaid, a child with autism can get the speech therapy he needs, a teenager with spina bifida can get the wheelchair she needs to use to get around school, and an older person living with a chronic illness can see his doctor.

Medicaid exists to help people who can’t otherwise afford it, pay for critical services like these.

But state budgets have been squeezed by this recession. With less and less tax revenue coming in, they’re facing the prospect of devastating cutbacks.

They need help filling the gaps and keeping important programs afloat.

They’re counting on support from Washington.

The federal government has always shared the financial responsibility for Medicaid.

With so many people in need and the states so strapped for cash, this is the moment for the Senate to step up with additional funding.

When enough of their constituents weigh in, elected officials listen.

That’s why we can’t let Senators cast their vote again without hearing our voices.

But it has to happen fast.

Write your Senators and let your opinion be heard before it’s too late.

I really appreciate your help on this critically important issue.

Dedicated Easter Seals supporters like you are the difference between winning and losing these legislative battles.

Thanks again,

Sincerely,
Katy Beh Neas
Vice President, Government Affairs

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________________________________________

Kyrgyzstan – Ethnic Cleansing

June 18, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The Central Asian nation, Kyrgyzstan bordering Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and China is home to 5.2 million ethnically diverse population with the Kyrgyz being the majority followed by the Uzbeks and other distinct groups in the society.

Recent ethnic violence where an estimated 400,000 is reportedly displaced having fled their homes with the Uzbek men, women and children targeted primarily between the two communities in the clashes that erupted from a political unrest back in April 2010.

Reflecting on the events then, the economic crisis and the energy prices combined with political corruption contributed to the massive public protest initially centered at the nation’s capital, Bishkek. It seemingly became widespread with casualties rising among the protesters and the riot police.

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev’s crackdown on independent news network, print press and websites information about the former administration’s alleged corruption scandal had angered the people and created more tension.

Subsequently, President Kurmanbek Bakiyev headed for Osh in South Kyrgyzstan and forced to resign by the opposition that had assumed power in the aftermath of the political uprising.

Meanwhile, the fallout between President Bakiyev and Kremlin on the Manas Air Base lease extension to the U.S. and NATO for the Afghan war logistic operation claimed to have expedited his ouster.

Accordingly it’s reported that “Vice-Chairman of the State Duma of Russia Vladimir Zhirinovsky stated that the United States was involved in events in Kyrgyzstan to gain control of Manas Air Base.”

President Kurmanbek Bakiyev is currently exiled in Belarus and implicated in the ethnic cleansing by the Kyrgyz government.

Juxtaposed, the Uzbeks accused the security forces for instigating the Kyrgyz mobs in the slaughtering, physical abuse, sexual assault of pregnant women and girls as young as 12.

The allegations are denied by the Kyrgyz military in the south contrary to the evidence.

Based on the facts and international eyewitness report, the innocent civilians are paying the price for the political crisis that has exploded into a violent humanitarian disaster.

As usual, neither the deposed nor the interim government is prepared to accept responsibility for the massacre suffered more by the Uzbeks leading to retaliation against the Kyrgyz, setting the nation for a civil war.

It’s imperative for the interim government led by the Kyrgyz leader, Roza Otunbayeva to restore law and order, rein in on the bloodshed and unite the country rather than letting it fall apart.

Any political power is legitimate only when it is capable of providing equal security and protection to all citizens regardless by maintaining the democratic system in governance.

Given the Kyrgyzstan history, the solidarity among various ethnic groups and tribes are quintessential for national stability and economic success. In fact, the Kyrgyzstan flag is symbolic of the unity between forty tribes and the red color embracing the southern region.

The killings and brutality against ethnic Uzbeks is deplorable and must cease at all costs. Similarly, attacks against Kyrgyz are equally reprehensible and the authorities in power not precluding the ousted President Bakiyev are accountable for the deteriorating situation.

Peaceful settlement of the political discord is a priority to save lives. Kyrgyz and Uzbeks are the citizens of Kyrgyzstan. Senseless conflict aimed at particular ethnic group annihilation or that of one another leads nowhere except self-inflicted grief and pain.

Truce between the fighting groups is paramount to avoid further escalation of violence.

Otherwise, there will be none left on either sides due to the political authorities’ quest for power superseding the urgency to promote national harmony.

Kyrgyzstan being strategically important to United States and Russia for their respective goals, the political influence impacts the sovereignty and threatens the ruling government’s viability.

Kyrgyz and Uzbeks reconciliation is dependent upon the political leadership’s resolve and commitment to unify them, besides responding to the desperate economic needs.

There is tremendous hope for peace to prevail upon mutual recognition to respect one another as human beings and Kyrgyzstan nationals.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Worst Industrial Catastrophe – Union Carbide / Dow Chemicals and Bhopal Victims of India

June 12, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

On June 7, 2010, the verdict on the worst industrial gas leak in 1984, Bhopal, India was delivered by the state’s local court.

According to the several reports:

The ruling convicted the seven officials in senior management along with the employees of the former Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL), the then subsidiary of the Union Carbide, USA with CEO Warren Anderson at that time.

Conviction included two years jail sentence and Rupees 100,000($2,100, €1,800) in fine.

Understandably, the judgment aroused sentiments among the victims’ devastated families and the survivors.

The NGO’s and other organizations representing the victims welcomed the much awaited process brought to national and international attention after pursuing the legal course for more than twenty five years.

However, they expressed huge disappointment in the limited sentencing and the exemption to the then Parent Company, Union Carbide CEO Warren Anderson.

India’s request for the CEO’s extradition to face trial was rejected in June 2004 by the United States.

Mr. Warren Anderson was the CEO of Union Carbide U.S.A during the industrial disaster in 1984 and served the corporation until 1986.

Subsequently, Union Carbide in their statement delineated themselves from the gross industrial negligence that claimed scores of lives and continue to affect more, the living and the yet to be born evidenced in the birth defects as well as other illnesses diagnosed thus far.

Union Carbide U.S.A transferred all liabilities pertaining to Bhopal incident over to its then fully owned subsidiary Union Carbide India Limited, while accepting the revenues and profits from the offshore operation. Effectively reflected in the multinational corporation CEO’s income, stock options and bonuses.

Moreover, the facts supporting the systemic operational facility discrimination between the U.S site and the Bhopal plant was disregarded in the entire proceedings.

Source: Wikipedia.org titled Warren Anderson (Chairman)

“Greenpeace asserts that as the Union Carbide CEO, Anderson knew about a 1982 safety audit of the Bhopal plant, which identified 30 major hazards and that they were not fixed in Bhopal but were fixed at the company’s identical plant in the US.

Union Carbide asserts that the Bhopal plant addressed all of the identified issues well before the December 1984 gas leak and that none of them had anything to do with the disaster.

Greenpeace claims that neglecting these hazards in Bhopal caused the explosion.

Others, such as the former police chief Swaraj Puri, who was injured in the Bhopal disaster, asserts that Mr. Anderson must have known about the danger of the plant because an employee had died there a year before the disaster.”

Statistics on the human tragedy from this major industrial catastrophe are as follows:

Source: Indian Supreme Court, Madhya Pradesh government, Indian Council of Medical Research

Initial deaths – more than 3,000 – official toll

Unofficial initial toll: 7,000-8,000

Total deaths to date: over 15,000

Number affected: Nearly 600,000

Compensation: Union Carbide pays $470m in 1989

Unfortunately, for the survivors and the victims’ families, the issue is not restricted to the selective indictment or the mild sentencing on a monumental management failure;

It’s rather an uphill battle to investigate the matter because of the high profile corporate and political power implicated in the horrific crime, especially with more information presented through visual content in the Indian media that confirms,

The “most wanted” CEO, Warren Anderson escorted in an Indian state government vehicle for safe departure from the Indian shores upon being released on bail after his arrest in December 7, 1984.

Mr. Anderson noted as the “chief defendant” in the trial from the beginning was excluded in the recent hearing outcome.

Per Wikipedia.org:

Later, “the arrest warrant issued on July 31, 2009 by the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Prakash Mohan Tiwari, Bhopal, India rendered ineffective due to the U.S. declining the extradition treaty, citing a lack of evidence.”

It bears resemblance to the 9/11 tragedy when the terror mastermind, Osama Bin Laden’s family were reportedly allowed secure passage from the United States in 2001.

The dangers of politics and prejudice playing dominant role in the judicial system, often deprives the innocent from obtaining justice even in the democratic society.

Such obstruction of justice through political influence and camouflage from the top bottom makes a mockery of the judicial system in a democracy.

It’s increasingly prevalent in the trials that could potentially expose the authorities in bad light.

No political system is an exception to the concept.

Besides, the news corps media being the primary voice for democracy have a journalistic responsibility to decipher the intricacies behind the funds exchange between Union Carbide USA and the Indian government that received the disclosed $470 million compensation with or without any stipulation.

Although, the monetary compensation is not proportionate to the suffering and damages sustained by the victims,

It’s still important to ascertain the amount actually received (if any) by the affected individuals in the prolonged dispute and address the status quo adequately.

Setting the political priorities aside, the dire situation beckons the Indian and the U.S. entities to view the Bhopal victims’ plight as a humanitarian calamity and exemplify requiring transnational corporations to adhere to universal environmental and ethical standards in the globalization era.

Justice denied to the innocent is Justice betrayed. For actions and decisions by all are judged accordingly.

Bhopal victims deserve better considering the long ordeal endured by them.

Providing medical assistance, toxin free living conditions with continuous monitoring to eliminate the persisting health hazards are the minimal needs for survival.

Enforcing strict industrial safety codes and regulations would protect workers from serious occupational injuries.

In addition, imposing liability on the corporations regardless of statehood for human and environmental harm is necessary to prevent negligence and evading financial obligation.

Whether it is Bhopal, India or the Gulf Coast in the United States, the communities pay the price in the deadly chemical release and oil gusher.

Perhaps, the bilateral solution to the problem rests with the Indian and U.S authorities to do right by shifting the burden of proof from the victims to those connected to the horrendous casualty in the Bhopal gas explosion.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

An Invitation to Experience the Dilemma

March 25, 2010

By Padmini Arhant,

Dear America and the Rest of the World,

I stated my desire to be ‘A-Political’ by not being affiliated to any political party and continue to pursue the peace and environmental goals. Subsequently, there has been flurry of attacks and disparaging remarks mounted by those whom I have supported up until now.

I can understand such position from the quarters dedicated to unsubstantiated allegations.

However, the political power and the ‘public funded’ networks using my donations to attack my decision with the former being fully aware of their doing and the latter without any facts beckons scrutiny.

It’s in human nature to jump into conclusions on matters with false information. They usually target individuals challenging the power to prioritize people over personal and special interest.

The victims become a ‘fair game’ for the authorities and sadly the “public funded” networks searching for scapegoats.

Unfortunately, the trend thus far has been – glorify privately but vilify publicly.

Alternatively, use them when it’s convenient and trash them upon finding their position a nuisance to the power and others following the norm.

I had always maintained that my contribution is focused towards humanitarian and environmental issues, in the United States and around the world.

In fact, it was suggested in their nuance. It was published recently in the local newspaper and I present that segment again.

“A potential source of his problems is the conflict presented by Campbell’s two chosen career paths.

He has spent his career advocating for civil liberties and academic freedom as a law professor while also trying to get ahead in the cutthroat arena of politics. But defending the rights of unpopular individuals is turning out to be poor politics.”

At another instance, it was advocated through their newly found hired networks that Church and State should remain separate and I concur with that philosophy, and repeatedly reinforced the message on my life purpose to fulfill obligations towards humanity without hindering or endangering anyone’s political or personal status.

Hence, the authorities ought to explain the inconsistency and indecisiveness on their part going back to the political campaign in 2008.

Further, I expressed my intention to exercise the first amendment right granted to every individual in a ‘free society.’ in the material presentation based on evidence and not a concocted theory.

Again, I’m not interested in the popularity contest, even though it’s been misconstrued in the manner that deemed fit among the faultfinders.

There was an accusation about my attachment to ‘polls’ during the reference to a ‘friendly advice,’ and it would aptly apply to political figures concerned about their term in office and the re-election prospects, not the peace activists.

On the one hand, I’m being characterized as ‘delusional, a pervert, an underground media prankster, egotistical, self-important with contradictory lifestyle, a bitter and angry mobster’… to say the least.

Interestingly, while on the other, the assailants know where to contact me for donations, in spite of the falsely accused ‘underground’ branding.

Yet, they relentlessly insist that I promote their agenda as predicted during the Presidential campaign –

“Empower some and enslave the targeted ones.”

Somehow, one tends to forget that while finger pointing, it’s essential to pay attention to the remaining fingers directed towards them, especially in the presence of suppressed public evidence.

Seeking flaws in others will eventually lead to none other than them upon soul searching.

That why, it’s important to look within and they’ll find themselves.

Besides, as stated earlier negative emotions hurt the ones harboring more than the ones it’s aimed at.

Their targets are not allowed to have principles and must work according to the state’s preference – i.e. embellish or exaggerate policies and records sometimes to the detriment of democratic values.

When I discuss the real life experience, it’s attributed to ‘presumptuousness.’ On the contrary, the similar citation by them and the authorities in power is admired as ‘family values.’

The irony being, the same ‘public funded’ cable networks considering themselves above the fray from the mainstream counterpart have adapted to the malpractice for unexplained reasons and preoccupied in mudslinging literally at my expense rather than engaging the political power by asking the tough questions on the approved and pending legislations.

Notwithstanding, the highlighted hypocrisy in the obsession against their target.

For instance, the health insurance reform was passed with political wrangling and arm twisting tactics. It was well known from the beginning that the Republican opposition would not yield to any concessions.

More poignantly, the last minute appeasement to attract the ‘anti-abortionist’ votes within the Democratic Party was done with the ‘Executive Order’ explicitly denying the federal funding for the women’s health rights.

There was none including the networks claiming to be the ‘voice for democracy’ dare to ask the authorities –

Why couldn’t they use the same ‘executive order,’ granting ‘Universal Medicare for all’ or include a robust ‘Public Option’ to make the reform truly meaningful?

Not surprisingly, upon signing the legislation, the insurance stocks skyrocketed in the absence of neither.

When there has been precedence set before with the former President Lyndon B. Johnson legislating “Medicare” for senior citizens reportedly analogous to ‘as simple as turning on the light switch’ by declaring, “Medicare begins tomorrow,”

Why didn’t the democrats move forward with a bold action, when the event concluded without a single republican vote?

Why is the law completely effective only in 2014, two years after the ‘possible’ second term of the incumbent administration?

Why not in the year 2010 or even 2011? –

To this, The White House responded that it would take four years to implement the massive overhaul.

Then in that case,

Why didn’t the authorities pursue the easier option by mandating the existing and established Medicare for all?

Regardless of the political ideology, contemporary politics revolves around personal political security on legislative and international matter.

From health insurance reform, 9/11 terrorists trials to the Israel-Palestinian conflicts, policies are carefully weighed in terms of electoral consequences and politically ‘safe’ strategy against,

‘Taking the political risk or laying down the reputation by doing what is right for the nation and humanity.’

As for the alleged ‘delusional’ predicament, I was approached and asked to be a volunteer since January 2008, Presidential election and up until now.

Although there were assumptions that, I was on the White House payroll and receiving payments from the Democratic Party, the truth of the matter being it was a ‘full time’ volunteer service all along.

It was truly an honor to be able to participate in the historic election and work alongside millions of volunteers in the political process.

Meanwhile, I also share the common plight of any average citizen trying to raise a family, generate an income to survive and provide for my children’s future, particularly their educational expenses.

The last three days while the incendiary attacks were carried out against me, I was attending to my sick child and busy meeting with family commitments, since I do not have an extended family support.

Therefore, I apologize for not updating on the developments leading to the unnecessary confusion.

I remain committed in my service to the nation and the people struggling to find a voice in the privatized political system without compromising on ethics and personal values.

Finally, I extend an invitation to experience the dilemma prior to passing judgments against anyone sincerely devoted to seeing the world, a better place for all.

Your understanding and cooperation is deeply appreciated.

I sign off with love and peace to all.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Call for Peace in Nigeria

March 16, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The senseless cycle of violence in Jos city, the capital of the Plateau State in the Nigerian “middle belt” reported to have claimed more than a thousand lives since 2001.

Plateau state is the home for the Christians in the south, the Muslims in the north and the many indigenous groups. It’s nature’s gift to the population.

Jos city is located between the beautiful rain forests in the south and the savannah in the north with a fertile land and economic opportunities that once prevailed in the area.

Sadly, the perpetual deadly attacks between the Muslims and the Christian population have turned the city and the nearby villages into a morgue.

According to the reports, last Sunday in the Christian village of Dogo Nahawa, 200 people were violently killed and previously in January 300 Muslims had died similarly.

Violence in the past ten years among the city residents has produced enormous hatred and mistrust to the point of irreconcilable differences.

After reviewing the situation, it appears that clashes are not exclusively religious related. It’s largely due to the political and socio-economic disparity in the region.

Currently, the state governed by the Christian majority is perceived to have neglected the Muslim population’s economic needs and the existing social inequality.

Therefore, the fight between these groups to control the capital, Jos city and the economy is the tipping point in the decade old violence.

Religious and political leaders fear that the situation could evolve into a “full blown” civil war, in the absence of peaceful intervention.

Regardless of religious and economic background, the population in conflict should pause and reflect on the reality.

The fighting factions must realize that the Muslims, Christians and the indigenous groups are all victims in the self-inflicted violence and they are human beings first, prior to any other identification.

All religions teach human beings to treat one another, as they would like to be treated – with love, respect and dignity.

The religious denominations are not meant to be a barrier. Instead, they are expected to serve as the binding force in the communities to work and live together.

Being caring, compassionate and understanding are the innate human qualities. It’s found among the animal species as well.

Recognizing these natural characteristics and practicing them in daily life is known to promote peace and harmony within and around.

Hostility could be transformed into hospitality and that comes from empathy.

Honoring the basic rights and requirements of all human beings should be instinctive and not subject to prerogative.

In this particular tragedy, the origin of the problem lies with the disproportionate political representation in the state government.

It is not uncommon for the political majority to be biased towards the segment with which they share a common faith or ethnicity.

Unfortunately, it’s the root cause of social unrest and political turmoil in every secular society throughout history.

Sharing the political power to represent the diverse groups in a society would alleviate the economic plight of the entire population rather than the targeted demography.

Muslims, Christians and the indigenous population in Jos city, are equally entitled to the resources and could vastly benefit by consolidating their unique talent that each one of them possess as human beings, to improve the economic and social standards.

Society’s progress is reflected when the differences are genuinely accepted and commonalities appreciated.

Violence begets violence and the bloodshed will persist if neither is willing to disavow the anger and hatred towards one another.

Negative emotions hurt the one’s harboring more than the one’s it’s aimed at.

Muslims and Christians fighting against each other could begin the healing process with forgiveness by forgetting the events leading to the endless grief.

Viewing from other’s perspective often paves the way for better relationships.

Further, it’s in the best interest of the society to focus on rebuilding the community through positive contributions.

Acknowledging the fact that injustice against one eventually affects all would set the cornerstone for reconciliation.

I urge the Muslims, the Christians and the indigenous to come together and live up to the expectations of their respective religious values and the general human conduct.

Humanity thrives by learning from the erroneous present and the past.

I wish the people of Jos city in the Plateau state and the rest of Nigeria eternal peace, progress and prosperity.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Universal Peace and Harmony

March 13, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Peace is a unique experience and easily realized if one is prepared to disinherit the negative emotions towards self and others. When human mind is at peace, it’s an instant bliss and pervasive over the surroundings.

On the other hand, the reason for the unrest in the world is because of internal conflict within individual that surface and spreads like a wildfire. Internal conflict arises from dissatisfaction mostly related to desire.

Therefore, discipline is necessary to control the needs and learn to be content with material possessions and status.

Another beneficial factor is generosity. A generous heart usually reflects kindness. Sharing and giving nurtures love permeating the environment like a beautiful fragrance.

Magnanimity could be in the form of empathy and compassion. Willing to take risk to save life or serve justice demonstrates an act of courage and a caring nature.

In the earlier article, the statement –

“Selfless act being seldom rewarded in the world dominated by ‘Me, myself and I,’ concept,” was in reference to those who come forward to do what is right for others despite the challenges ahead but remain unsuccessful.

It’s largely due to the lack of co-operation from the rest.

A perfect example is the health care reform, where the few lawmakers’ request to adopt a ‘single payer’ system that is ideal for the people and the nation is opposed rather than being appreciated.

When a society recognizes the cumulative advantage for a vast majority, with a permanent solution such as the ‘universal health care through single payer,’ it’s best to move forward in that direction.

Their positive action will not be in vain. It’s based on the adage –

“What you sow is what you reap.”

Deeds performed to alleviate the suffering of humanity bear fruits in abundance.

As promised, I would like to explain the events’ characteristics since my acquaintance with the citizens of the world.

A Prophet’s visit to the physical world is solely for the purpose of protecting civilization from collapsing. Further, it happens when ethical and moral degradation portends danger beckoning divine intervention for salvation.

Right now, the toxicity in the planet is endangering life.

In human flesh, the purest soul performs the act to pronounce the karmic effects of it. It’s to teach humanity the consequences of negative vices such as anger, hatred, envy, ego, pride, greed, lust, etc

By the way, the ‘butter thief’ connotation towards Shri Krishna is an endearment term used by the devotees, but was deliberately put forth in the context to arouse self-analysis of an intentional misunderstanding by the critics in the relevant topic.

Thou thyself art to blame. Human nature often forget their actions while detecting faults in others.

They ignore the remaining fingers pointing towards them during their criticism of another.

The speck of dust is magnified in the backdrop of luminosity.

Moreover, it’s noteworthy that throughout the latent teaching, it was never a pre-emptive action but a response to provocation.

Invariably, it was in the innocent victims’ defense and on other occasions a reminder to review bad decisions, that was once again affecting the disadvantaged,

As well as urging to look within and find the self, the pure soul – the ‘Almighty,’ who dwells in every being.

It’s an act of nature versus nurture.

By becoming the participant in the world stage, the objective is to teach the fundamentals of individual action.

It’s called Karma in spirituality. Also known as the cause and effect – i.e. nothing happens without a reason.

Scientifically, it proves that ‘every action has equal and opposite reaction.’

The spiritual guides as the Prophets and Messiahs have the responsibility to disillusion the astray and redeem them from their wrongdoings by absorbing the negativities.

In the process, the Prophet endures the pain through insults and incendiary remarks from the cynics – equivalent to bearing the cross to absolve Mother Earth from negative energy.

Indian mythology has many incidents whereby the incarnate and the Supreme entity had to consume bitterness figuratively and literally like in the incident when God Shiva had to swallow venom to protect life.

Lord Ram, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu compelled to send the lord’s consort Devi Sita, an expectant mother with twins back to the forest in an effort to be the subjects’ King.

Likewise, Lord Jesus Christ revealed the truth upon resurrection to the lord’s ardent disciple Mary Magdalene first, much to the principal followers’ dismay.

All of these events confirm the saints and prophets’ predicaments to uphold virtues by committing the ‘less virtuous’ action in ‘the eyes of the beholder.’

Synonymously, The 2008 Presidential campaign began with perfect decorum among the contestants on the left and the right.

It didn’t take too long for that to disappear and soon transformed into a ruthless battle with emotions running high allowing heated exchanges between the contenders, not to mention the office of Presidency targeted in the debates.

So, the lessons to be learned are mutual respect, better understanding, self-restraint along with an open mind to view matter in different perspective prior to rushing to conclusions or harsh treatment of anyone with a different position, even if their stance would yield substantial gains or loss for the less fortunate and otherwise.

I would like to engage you all in my life journey briefly.

During my residency in Australia, in the three-story apartment building among the many residents,

There were only two occupants of color – There was I, and a beautiful family from the Ivory Coast in West Africa.

The African family had the father, Kwadjo and his wife Tina with two lovely kids.

They moved into the building after I did. Kwadjo was an extremely friendly and a vivacious person.

Tina was very soft spoken and respectful.

They both were highly qualified professionals. Kwadjo was a PhD. in town planning from the internationally renowned Australian institution, Monash University.

Tina was a registered ICU nurse. They arrived from Ivory Coast as legal residents during the economic boom.

In spite of that, neither of them could find suitable employment anywhere, forcing them to become under employed. Tina worked at the janitorial service in the biggest hospital.

Kwadjo on his part volunteered at the non-profit institution run by the local church in exchange for food to support his young family.

Kwadjo and Tina would reach out to other residents for a handshake or friendly greeting only to be disappointed with a cold shoulder from them.

Since they were very good neighbors and friends of mine, I knew them well and we invited each other over for dinners.

When I relocated to the United States, both Kwadjo and Tina were still struggling to find an appropriate job.

A year later, I learned from my sibling who was in Australia. He stayed in my apartment and Kwadjo had made this comment:

“Your sister, Padmini was the only one in this building, who treated my family and me as human beings. She showed love and respect by sharing and accepting whatever we had.”

Kwadjo and family had immigrated to Canada after having spent many years in Australia without an affordable income. I was informed about it via a surprise post card from them upon their arrival in Canada.

Similarly, the couple with epilepsy in the building felt isolated for their speech impediment and not being able to hold a long conversation. They felt that others had no patience to listen and avoided them entirely.

Then in California, my neighbor Lee, who was a widow and a paraplegic, confined to a wheel chair.

Lee had many children, grand children and great grand children.

It didn’t matter. For Lee, had none visiting her even during Christmas or Thanks giving.

So, abandoning ones’ parents in their old age is not exclusive to India or any particular society.

It’s a worldwide tragedy. Most people have no time for others in the contemporary lifestyle where individualism takes priority.

I became Lee’s surrogate daughter and she adored my children, who were an infant and a toddler at that time. They used to call her the “lollypop Lee,” for she would offer them lollypop during my routine visits to her place to keep her company.

Lee was in tears when I had to leave and I remained in touch with her from overseas.

In another instance, my visit to Paris had a strange twist when the pleasant hospitable host, a French (a fourth generation French) Jewish cardiologist turned hostile to my polite question to him on the two state solution between Israel and Palestine co-existing with one another, back in 1992.

Even though, the French doctor had never visited Israel and lived in France his entire life, the discussion was off the table.

It made me pause and wonder about the discord that persists in the atmosphere.

Human relationships evolve from the recognition of the truth that we are all inter-linked in the tightly woven fabric of the global society that is splitting apart rapidly.

We are the fragmentation of an energy particle that has a binding force and it’s not viable to be polarized on the issues concerning freedom, democracy, equal rights, race, religion…

Every living being is born free but sadly deprived of the natural rights in many parts of the world.

On the Environmental Front:

The world population is dealing with different kinds of environmental pollution. There is air, water and noise pollution.

Air and water are natural resources. Regardless, the people across the globe have to pay for clean air and pure drinking water. Noise is a major hazard in the urban areas of the nations.

Preserving the habitat for life survival and sustenance is paramount.

It’s possible to change the stagnancy into a flowing river for all to exist and thrive.

If we don’t pull together and make a concerted pledge to reunite and rebuild the global community, the individuals’ aspiration will not come to fruition.

Selective few cannot succeed on their own for long.

Hence, coherence is absolutely important to retain the goodness and release the bad vibrations.

Universal peace and harmony are the cornerstones to resolve the global crises.

Please remember the primary goal is to “Save the Planet,” and establish “Peace on Earth.”

Without your help and enthusiasm, it’s not attainable.

Let’s begin now for a better tomorrow.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Demystifying the Myth

March 11, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

My fellow citizens of the world,

I wish to clarify the misunderstandings in the communication with respect to the power in Washington.

The new developments are not to create any confusion or pose a threat to anyone’s position whether personal or professional.

President Barack Obama is the President of the United States and the Congress members as the elected representatives would perform the legislative tasks per the constitution.

I request the responsible members in Congress or the media not to arrive at any hasty conclusion and spin the information against our President Barack Obama or the Democratic Party leadership and the members.

This message is being released in coherence with the new beginning set forth for humanity.

Regarding my identity and the precise reason for the engagement in the physical world,

I assure you that none will be kept in the dark and there is no conspiracy of any kind.

In fact, it’s the long well known prophecy eventuating to confirm the cosmic convergence in the universe.

My involvement is for a specific purpose in accordance with the cosmic evolutionary process concerning time and space.

I’ll provide an explanation with a formal introduction including the characteristics of the events since my acquaintance with all of you going back to the Presidential campaign in 2008.

I will also share my life journey for better perception.

Your patience is much appreciated.

‘Save the Planet’ and ‘Peace on Earth’ is not merely a concept but an inevitable reality.

Signing off with love and peace to every being on this planet.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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