Iconoclastic controversy rages on

This is with regards to the iconoclastic controversy over the removal of Ganesha idol at NIIT, Shillong at the behest of the JSU (Jaintia Students Union). The stated objection of the JSU was that the idol could undermine the institute’s secular fabric and “incite communal sentiments” among the students and staff belonging to other faiths. The Union suggested an alternative placement by the bust of a renowned personality from fields of science, humanities or literature. The students’ stand is right since it is a Government Institute. If NIIT is a Hindu Institute they have the right to install whichever idol they want, just as a Christian inst…