Every individual values his religion. It is never comforting to find fault in other religions and criticize them. The essence of all religions is the same. Love and peace are the essences of all religions. The faith of each religion can only be fully understood if it is evaluated in its entirety. The tendency to criticize only certain doctrines, customs, and beliefs is the most erroneous practice followed by religious fanatics. Gurudeva has clearly stated in his 'Atmopadesa Śatakam' that this is like how blind people touch and understand an elephant. To one who only touches an elephant's ear, it may seem that the elephant is a flat creature. The elephant appears to be like a pillar to those who only touch its legs. However, an elephant is neither flat nor does it look like a pillar. The shape of an elephant can only be understood by comprehensively observing it. Attempts by some people to interpret, criticize, and ridicule other religions without comprehensively observing it have led to the greatest wars, riots, and bloodshed in world history.

Only those who are utterly ignorant of the various religions and the great souls who laid the foundation for these religions can make derogatory remarks about religions other than their own. No civic-minded person, who can think for a moment about the repercussions such references can have on society, would be ready to make such remarks. However, the fact that those in responsible positions are making such statements can never be accepted by the general public living in a relatively friendly environment.

Let us hope that protests will subside with the BJP taking action against its national spokesperson Nupur Sharma, who made derogatory remarks about the Prophet during a television debate, and Naveen Kumar Jindal media in-charge of the party's Delhi unit who made racist remarks on Twitter. Leaders should take steps to expel such people from their respective parties. Otherwise, the number of people who tend to make such provocative comments for the sake of votes will only increase.

There were widespread protests and violence in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, against the blasphemy against the Prophet. Forty people were injured. Muslim organizations protested across the country. When foreign countries like Qatar and Kuwait protested, it became a matter damaging India's reputation inside and outside the country. TV and social media platforms need to be extra careful in preventing such remarks. People who make such remarks should be considered criminals. They should live in prisons, not in the community.