Despite history of non-violence, too many clashes in India recently, says Kiren Rijiju

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Sunday lamented the fact that despite a history of non-violence, India has seen many incidents of hostility lately.

Speaking at an inter-faith dialogue organised by the Dalai Lama, Rijiju said, "We have a history of non-violence but we have also been witnessing conflicts amongst ourselves. Inter-faith dialogues are very pertinent in today's day and age and I feel that this initiative will really take us long in realising our dreams and to portray India's great image of harmonious co-existence between various sects of the people."

"In the Home Ministry, if there is any problem we will send the police or the army. We send our forces but if religious leaders can send their messages they can easily stop communal clashes," he added.

Calling India "a symbol of tolerance", Rijiju hailed the fact that the country has a history of welcoming people from all around the world.

He also grieved over the fact that so many clashes had taken place recently, saying, "Whenever we get any reports of any communal disturbances in the Home Ministry, it causes us much pain. Recently, there have been so many natural disasters that it has taken us time to respond. What pains us the most is that all communal problems are of our own creation. The conflict between humans and humans can be and should be stopped.