credence

cre·dence  (krdns)
n.
1. Acceptance as true or valid; belief. See Synonyms at belief.
2. Claim to acceptance; trustworthiness.
3. Recommendation; credentials: a letter of credence.
4. A small table or shelf for holding the bread, wine, and vessels of the Eucharist when they are not in use at the altar.

Cynics argue that environment has become a convenient stick to beat non-Congress led states; a view that gains credence when similar activities in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh are given kid-glove treatment!