Bangalore: An inter religious dialogue was held at KAS Hall, Bangalore on December 17, 2011 attended by about 30 religious heads and VIP’s, Where the role of religion in eradicating corruption was discussed and passed a Resolution. The Symposium was presided by Maulana Faruq Khan Delhi.

Resolution passed at the inter religious dialogue 

This house comprising of religious leaders of all faiths and organisations and intellectuals discussed at length today the prevailing situation in the country and noted with concern the unprecedented level of corruption that has affected nearly all sections of society. The growing public concern, anxiety and frustration at this is understandable and has found expression in movements like ‘India against corruption‘.

At this juncture, the house feels that it is the duty of every citizen to act responsibly in reforming the society and eradicate all evils including corruption. Religion has an important role in moral development of individual and religious leader should pioneer to guide the people in this respect.  This house likes to draw the attention of all concerned citizens to the following points for necessary actions.

        i.            Corruption is a manifestation of the underlying disease of greed, selfishness, dishonesty, injustice and materialistic outlook. We need a holistic approach to solve the problem.

      ii.            Fundamental to the solution of the problem is to strengthen the moral conscience of the individual and create an environment where corruption is viewed as a crime and a sin. India is a country where religion and spirituality is respected and revered. God consciousness, fear of God and sense of accountability for one’s actions needs to be developed and inculcated in all citizens.

    iii.            The existing institutions like the Lokayukta, Anti-Corruption Bureau, CBI, CVC, Enforcement Agency etc. need to be given due powers and freedom and allowed to work with fairness, justice, swiftness and sincerity.

   iv.            The Lokpal Bill under debate should be passed after proper discussion in the Parliament with due constitutional safeguards. However, legislation alone is no answer to this hydra-headed monster.

     v.            Every individual should make a determined effort to cleanse our own lives before we set out to put the society in order. We should resolve neither to pay nor receive bribe in any form or manner.

   vi.           The age old social, racial and economic inequalities and discrimination in our country is being made worse by the ever growing corporatisation of our economy. These are important causes and promoters of corruption that should be opposed. A balanced and inclusive growth with justice to all is a prerequisite for a peaceful and just society.

 vii.            The fair minded and well-meaning citizens in our society need to be more organised and proactive in these causes and not just be silent spectators, allowing evils to engulf the society.

This house resolves that the religious leaders should come together often and work unitedly to promote virtues, eradicate vices and engender moral values in our society.