Prof. D. SAMUEL LAWRENCE writes ...

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Dear Sam,

I was extremely happy to read several letters from alumni,retired-faculty and well-wishers of the college across the world expressing happiness and joy over the landmark judgement given by the learned judges, Justice V.Ramasubramanian and Justice D.Hariparanthaman,which effectively closed the chapter of agony and anxiety in The American College. They are indicative of their deep and abiding attachment to the college..The judgement is clear and categorical The judges deserve to be appreciated for the painstaking efforts they have taken to make it comprehensive,leaving no room for conjectures and surmises. Surely, it has brought the much- needed relief on the campus.

It is true that we have to set aside the dark past and move forward. It is also true that we have to forgive and forget,in a spirit of reconciliation, however difficult it might be. I am happy that such sentiments were expressed by all the speakers, including the Principal Dr. Chinnaraj Joseph Jaikumar,in an informal and hastily convened meeting in the portico of the Principal's bungalow, immediately after coming to know the verdict. At the same time, damage to the property of the college and such other heinous crimes definitely cannot be condoned.

The hallowed campus of the College, built brick by brick by the selfless and noble missionaries,through their sweat and sacrifice, has been saved from the clutches of the unscrupulous Bishop..The one who was expected to protect the College, was bent upon destroying it..The atrocities committed by the Bishop and his henchmen are unimaginable and beyond one's comprehension.He thought that he could use his money power and muscle power to defeat and crush the fierce loyalists of the college. But, the remarkable unity among the loyalists and their firm determination to fight till the end, without worrying about the cost and consequence did not give any room whatsoever to the Bishop to achieve his evil goals.

And, all those genuinely interested in the College to remain as it has been from its inception- as a Christian institution with a secular outlook,catering to the needs of every student- would be happy that the Bishop's sinister attempts to bring it under his control in order to serve his own selfish ends have been thwarted.

But, we cannot afford to be complacent. We have to be always vigilant.And let the noble ideals of the selfless missionaries who founded this great instituition inspire us and continue to guide us.


D. SAMULE LAWRENCE

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