The debate on whether to renounce fireworks and crackers for festivals has been raging in Kerala since the Puttingal temple tragedy a year ago killing 111 people and injuring over 350 others. Many churches and temples are setting an example by shunning opulent festivities and spending the money saved on charitable causes. The Edathua Perunnal, one of Kerala’s most popular Christian festivals, toned down the festivities this year and raised 8 lakh rupees to help six homeless families construct houses.
India’s poor deserve better than this
Concerns are being raised about whether the needs of poor and marginalized communities in India are receiving enough attention in current government policies. Observers say
