Udupi: Bhaskar Rao, writer, has said that there were systematic efforts being made to muzzle differing and dissenting opinions not just in the country but the entire world.

He was speaking after inaugurating the conference on tradition of harmony in Coastal Karnataka, here recently.

Mr. Rao said that all methods, including the power of money and mob, were being used to stop people from speaking their differing views in public. If these did not yield result, the differing or dissenting opinions themselves were being muzzled in a systematic manner.

Presently, intellectuals and caste and religious dissenters had a tough time in expressing their opinions. If they did, they were likely to be hounded by the powers-that-be, he said.

The name of Gandhiji was being used for good deeds. But Gandhiji never attached himself to any one ideology. He was straightforward in his views. His views were eternal. He laid emphasis on truth, non-violence and honesty, and accepted differing and dissenting opinions, he added.

If harmony had to be maintained in the world, then truth should be practised and respected. If economic, social and political harmony is needed, it is essential to provide basic facilities such as food, clothing and shelter to the people, Mr. Rao said.

Chandrakala Nandavar, G. Rajashekhar, writers, William Martis, Hussain Kodibenger, Dinakar Bengre, social activists, were present.