In a veiled dig at politicians in his native state of Kerala, Goa Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai on Monday said that in a democracy, one can oppose their opponents “politically and ideologically”, but “rivals must not be considered enemies”. While mentioning the similarities between the states of Kerala and Goa, Pillai said, “.There is no communal riots in Goa. Goa is considered, on the basis of per capita income, the top-most state in India. There is a cordial peaceful relationship between various political parties and various religions. and a classic example to be followed by our Kerala also. about maybe political rivalries and other things. They [in Goa] don't consider their rivals as enemies. I am not blaming Kerala.” Pillai made the statement while speaking at the release of a book "On the Sides of the Angels", a collection of short stories authored by him, at Raj Bhavan. The book was released by former Goa chief minister Pratapsingh Rane. Recounting a visit of former President A P J Abdul Kalam to Kerala, Pillai said, “When the former President had visited Kerala Assembly. his first advice. first suggestion was to 'minimise political spirit'. Now, that does not mean you will have to run away from political thought. what is democracy? Democracy is the right to differ. You can oppose your opponent, politically and ideologically. but not consider, in a democracy, your rival as an enemy.” Pillai said the stories mentioned in the book had two aspects stories, drawing from imagination and the real life experiences. “While working with the masses, I had the opportunity to realise and understand what is happening around me,” he said. He added that of the six stories in the book, one is set against Goa's backdrop, while the narrative for the others is set in his hometown in Kerala. Former Goa chief minister Pratapsingh Rane heaped praise on the Governor, stating that the book was penned by a person "who deeply believes in the principles of democracy". Rane said in a society, people have the freedom to voice their opinions and thoughts, but cautioned against the dangers of imposing them on others. Margao MLA Digamber Kamat said Pillai, in addition to his literary pursuits, held the unique distinction of being the first Governor to visit every village in Goa.
