<B>By Pauline ETIENNE</B>

There are times in the country?s history when religious and cultural differences were about to become a source of division. Whatever the reasons behind the speech of the prime minister, Navin Ramgoolam, in Union Park and his insistence that he was only speaking of injustice, perception remains that his words were a bit exaggerated and targeted one specific section of the population.

The story has made a lot of noise. Even now, daily conversations about the increase in the cost of living and the shortage of milk in supermarkets have given in to comments on the PM?s strange stand. It speaks volumes about the way people interpret things and how much it affects them.

Public institutions should seize this opportunity to see if the principle of secularisation is really respected throughout the country. Any ?faux-pas? could worsen the situation. It is extremely important that all bodies and institutions under the aegis of the State remain totally independent and far from any religious identity. State schools and all other public institutions must in no way impose daily or even occasional prayers to their pupils and students. Even if there is a great majority of people sharing the same cultural values, a public school must respect the fact that we are a secular country.

Religion should not interfere in their education.

The same should apply to hospitals. It is not normal that a picture of a religious has pride of place in the waiting room of a public hospital. Just as it would not be normal for any other person representing a religion or specific beliefs. We can?t even say that the picture has been there for ages and the staff have even forgotten about it ? fresh flowers are placed there regularly.

It?s just as well that everyone has the freedom of practising his/her own religion. However, it should always remain a private matter ? especially in public institutions. This country is not Hindu, Islamic or Christian. It is a bit of all these religions. It is important that everyone becomes enriched with the culture of others. However, there is no question of imposing anything to anyone.

Religion should have a definite place in society and it should be far away from the State. It is the only way of making sure no one feels left out. Everyone can then continue to live in peace while respecting other cultures.