Behind paranoid eyes…

Written on December 15, 2008 by Imran Mirza

 

I just came across a newspaper report which stated that in a meeting of about 300 real estate agents and brokers in Gujurat, it was decided that they would not rent or sell property to “Muslims” as they fear that they would unknowingly shelter and aid terrorists.

 

I don’t know if this would help bring down terrorist activities. Probably, it can. But what I am sure of, is the fact that it would further isolate Muslims in the region. This would just add to the list of reasons that “masterminds” across the border use to brainwash youth.

 

I am not against such measures. However, the right thing would be to make background checks extremely strict, not just for people from a community or religion but for everyone.

 

The same group of people who came together for this decision, could have resolved to have a robust system for property dealings, on the lines of KYC norms for banks. This would not only help curb terrorism, but also money laundering, fraud and many such problems.

 

apney hi ghar mein khud ajnabee hun main
har kisii ke shuba ka mauzoo hun main

na duniya mein muhib-e-watan, na masjid mein mureed,
sarhad par sar qalam ho kar bhi na shaheed hun main

 

- Imran Mirza

Posted in The Common Man, The Poet