(IN BOX)
I-T notice not in good taste
The income-tax (IT) department has reportedly sought from the Archdiocese of Goa data regarding account information, cash balances and in hand currency which is being regarded as a routine procedure. However,, the Archdiocese has also been asked to reveal the number of notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 held by it on the closing day, November 8. There seems nothing routine in this regard and probably casts aspersion on the church body of converting black money into white which is absolutely wrong. However, such a notice should not worry the church as we faithful believe in Jesus's words: Give back to Cesar what is Cesar’s and to God what is God’s” (Mark 12:17). As regards the fact that the I-T notices have been sent only to the Catholic churches in Goa which appears to be a discriminatory step, we faithful should not forget that Jesus Christ was also subjected to false accusations. We should be led by His words while dying on the cross “Father forgive them for they not what they are doing” (Luke 23:24).
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
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Why only Christian Community?
A few years ago, in a surprise manner the Velim Church was raided by the income-tax sleuths. the move created law and order problem in the village. The police filed a case which is still being heard in court. Many lost their jobs due to the court cases filed against them. Today, as reported in various section of the newspapers in Goa, once again the Goan Christian community is under the scanner of Income Tax office. There are about 160 churches and chapels in Goa. It is ridiculous on part of the I-T office to seek such large amount of data within a day. It is more ridiculous and even disheartening to know that only the Christian community is targeted among the numerous religious institutions in Goa. The Church in Goa is certainly the most organised body and law-abiding. No doubt the department of I-T has every right to seek financial details of any organisation. But the timing of sending the notice seeking information of cash in hand and the types of currency denominations and the details of accounts as on 7th, 8th and 9th November is certainly suspicious. Secondly, if the I-T office is not satisfied with the Church body while filing annual income tax returns, such a notice should have been sent at that time, the public would not have suspected their intent then. Thirdly, there are numerous religious institutions in Goa, so why then only Christian community is being targeted by the same department? The public hopes that better sense will prevail among the law-enforcing agencies in order to avoid further embarrassment, chaos and law and order problem in a peaceful state of Goa.
Rui Pereira, Navelim
