Wisdom vs egoism

The warring trustees of the Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP) have gone too far this time just on the eve of the forthcoming 10th World Zoroastrian Congress (10WZC) which delegates look forward to, coming from distant lands to meet their friends under one roof, to learn and in turn share their knowledge. This is a happy occasion, where so many people have spent hours of time and resources so that the community can enjoy themselves. Hamazori!

Toxy Cowasjee: "attendees are left in limbo"

It’s a sad day when each and every disagreement that takes place within the confines of the BPP office is made public and in the last few years has been splashed in the major tabloids of India. It is common knowledge that everyone cannot agree over all issues, but is it not possible to still remain gentlemen (the word includes the ladies) and rise above slandering individuals publicly? If there is a problem, howsoever major it may be, sort it out privately. There was a time when being a trustee of an anjuman was an honor given to men who were considered khandani (honorable) and with wisdom, so that the community could look up to them and know their interests were safe with them. How can anyone respect people who cannot respect each other?
Even now it is not too late to carry on with good grace and have the 10WZC as planned. Too many people have paid upfront for their air passage, visa, accommodation, etc. Surely even if the BPP are the hosts for the 10WZC and have the last say in what they decide to do, the trustees should have thought of the 1,000+ attendees who are now left in limbo, before making a hasty and rash announcement. Not to forget the speakers who have committed to attend through invitation, despite their heavy schedules, just so that we the Zoroastrian community can hopefully open our minds and learn. We are supposed to be a highly educated community; does this behavior show any sort of decorum or education?
It is to be recalled that the 10WZC was slated to be in Singapore, but the BPP used their clout and took the event to Bombay, promising the next one to the Singaporeans. If this chance is now missed, Bombay will have to wait for at least another 10 years.
Word is out that many individuals have offered their services to take over the 10WZC and run it as planned, but would that erase the slur that has been caused? Damage has been done, but amends can be made if the people concerned rise above themselves, think of the larger picture and just go ahead as planned. It does require courage to backtrack, but it can be done.
May wisdom override egoism.
From a person who loves her community.