Dear Editor
IT DOES appear that Viraat Sabhaa is the new official authoritative voice for matters pertaining and relating to the Hindu religion, thus effectively displacing the decades old Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS).

How a virtually unknown organisation can suddenly come on the scene and replace a well-established, decades old organisation in such a sensitive matter beats me. One would have thought that this controversy would have been referred to the Minister of Social Cohesion for a mutually acceptable outcome, instead of what is taking place. It is regrettable that common ground and consensus could not be found in the matter of dates for the observance of the Festival of Lights — Diwali.

This controversy will, no doubt, cast a pall on observances which have seen Guyanese countrywide participating. It is hoped the factions in disagreement will cast aside their acrimony and celebrate and observe Diwali in its true spirit — the triumph of light over darkness — and in unity.
Regards,
Shamshun Mohamed