As Hindus celebrate Divali, which symbolises good over evil, a High Court judge has called on society to take a stand against forms of evil, including domestic violence and bullying.
Justice Frank Seepersad delivered the feature address at a Divali celebration held by the Cultural Heritage Ambassadors of Trinidad and Tobago in association with the Rotary Club of Penal and Shri Ganesh Mandir in Penal on Friday.
The judge said the concept of evil is expansive and takes many forms, including bullying.
“The actions of bullies are evil and they aren’t confined to our schools. There are also adults in offices with nice titles who think they have the right to break the spirits of others so they can feel better about their miserable lives,” he said.
Alluding to recent salacious comments by Energy Minister Stuart Young in Parliament, Seepersad said, “In our Republic, we actively see bullies within our communities, our courts and even in our Parliament where, very recently, disappointing, degrading and disgraceful comments were issued.
“Bullying is fostered by insecurity, intolerance and a lack of respect. Our children model the behaviour which they see and the outlook for our future does not auger well when those who ought to know better behave poorly, use crass language and perpetuate divisive dogmas. “Words matter, actions have consequences and a no-tolerance approach needs to be engaged.”
Tackling the burning issue of domestic violence, Seepersad said women have been attacked from time immemorial and the solution requires a multifaceted approach.
“At this moment, it appears that the evil of domestic and gender-based violence is strangling this nation. This is not a police, court or government problem, it is a ‘we’ problem and to overcome this evil, a multifaceted approach is required. For goodness and peace to prevail, we must embark upon a gender sensitisation programme aimed at resetting entrenched misogynistic attitudes and rejecting the objectification of our nation’s women. Support systems are also vital as victims of abuse need to be shielded, institutional systems must be strengthened and stringent sanctions imposed upon domestic violence offenders,” the judge said.
Noting that evil looms everywhere in the world, he said various facets of the Divali celebration should remind everyone that good will eventually triumph over evil and people must not lose hope.
Encouraging society to pledge to do what’s right this Divali, Seepersad said, “Take a stand against those who bully and propagate evil as a result of their actions.
“As we focus upon the concept of good overcoming evil, do not compromise your truth and integrity; stand strong, reject corruption and do not acquiesce to fear or allow yourself to be blinded and manipulated by others whose sole agenda is to advance their insular interests.”
Urging citizens to be bold, fearless and independent he reminded them that with God as their guide, goodness will prevail.