Kamla Calls Again for Security for Shivaratri

Caption: Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar with her husband Gregory Bissessar. Photo: Facebook/UNC

OPPOSITION Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar is calling for more security again for devotees who are celebrating Maha Shivaratri on Wednesday night into Thursday morning.

In a statement on Tuesday, she said, “Last year, amid a dangerous surge in crime and violence, I called for increased security to be provided to devotees during this time.

“Notably, this year, nothing has changed, since Maha Shivaratri will be taking place during a State of Emergency, purportedly called to address the ongoing unprecedented, pervasive crime and violence wave in Trinidad and Tobago.

“I, therefore, again make a special call to the police authorities to ensure that devotees are safe to engage in their religious observances during this time.”

Persad-Bissessar said, “This grand night of Lord Shiva is a time of devotion, fasting, and spiritual awakening, bringing devotees together in prayers, chanting, and meditative worship of Lord Shiva. 

“It is a night of rebirth when devotees reflect on the aspects of their lives that require renewal and then commit to adopting a path that is free from negativity, spiritually enlightening, and supported by positive values.

“The symbolism of this event sends an important message to all our people that devotion and spirituality are vital components of a progressive society. Indeed, as a nation undergoing a state of crisis on almost every level, and especially crime and violence, Trinidad and Tobago is in dire need of the rebirth, transformation, and progress that Lord Shiva’s grand night promises to all.”

Maha Shivaratri devotees traditionally gather at the nation’s multitudinous temples from 6 pm until dawn the following morning, she said.

Persad-Bissessar said, “There must be increased police patrols in the vicinity of the temples for the duration of the observance, to guarantee safety and security to all devotees. Indeed, I ask that the Police Authorities make a public statement, committing to same.

“To the Hindu community, I wish all a safe, fulfilling Maha Shivaratri observance.  As you fast and pray on this sacred night, may you be filled with moments of serenity, devotion, and spiritual awakening.

“May your devotion be acknowledged, and your heart’s desires be fulfilled. May your families and loved ones be blessed with joy, strength, and success. And may Lord Shiva fill us all with his divine blessings and give us solidarity, resolve, and faith to move forward with truth, purity, and divinity.”