For a small dingy kholi (room) in a jhopadpatti (hutment), the poorest folks fork out 10 times or even more rent than what we pay for our spacious flats in prime localities — thanks to our philanthropic ancestors. A monthly increase of just Rs 750 is not going to make any dent to an individual, but collectively it can create a sizable amount working out to several crores for the cash deficit Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP).
Many community members residing in ownership flats pay steep maintenance charges, while those living in rented houses spend a lot on maintenance of their flats, so why should the colony residents grudge contributing this small amount? Those who have paid have only fulfilled their duty.
Considering all the benefits colony residents receive, I do not think that even the less well-off will grudge paying a nominal amount of Rs 750 a month extra.
It is time to question the trustees of the BPP on how a once rich trust has empty coffers and finds it difficult to pay salaries to the staff. The trustees spent recklessly on various litigations which not only emptied the coffers and sowed the seeds of conflicts in our peaceful community, but also tarnished the community’s image.
The trustees are constantly involved in a game of majority and minority with decisions being taken by an outside remote control.
Our Punchayet can achieve much more if there is unity and harmony among the trustees. Differences of opinion are signs of a healthy democracy, but that should not result in ill-feeling and enmity among co-workers. A healthy debate and constant communication can solve difficult problems while working for a beneficial common cause affecting the community. Decisions taken unanimously have more weightage and acceptance than fractured verdicts.
PIROJA HOMI JOKHI
piroja.jokhi@yahoo.com