| 17 September 2023
| Christie Anto
New Delhi - A storm of controversy has erupted in the political landscape of Tamil Nadu after DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's recent remarks about Sanatana Dharma, sparking concerns raised by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over the potential implications of a minister's statements on religious sentiments.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed her apprehensions about Udhayanidhi Stalin's comments, reminding him of the constitutional oath he took upon assuming office. "You (Udhayanidhi Stalin) have taken an oath as per the constitution and become a minister. During the oath, you clearly state that you won't hurt others' sentiments. Even if it is your ideology, you still don’t have the right to say that you’ll destroy a religion," she stated emphatically.
Sitharaman's concern extended to P Sekar Babu, the Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE), who shared the stage with Udhayanidhi during the controversial remarks. She questioned how one could protect Hindu temples when there was a speech seemingly aimed at their destruction. "How can you protect [Hindu temples] when there is a speech that aims to destroy them? You also took an oath and seem content with the donations made by Sanatana Hindus in the temple hundis (collection box)," she added.
In a firm denunciation of any form of violence, Sitharaman also condemned a seer who announced a Rs 10 crore bounty for Udhayanidhi's head. She stressed her commitment to non-violence, stating, "How can I condone such acts when I firmly believe that there is no place for violence, whether it's in words or actions? Respecting diversity means refraining from violence."
The controversy surrounding Udhayanidhi's remarks prompted the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to initiate statewide protests. They attempted to besiege HR&CE offices while demanding the resignation of Minister Sekar Babu.
Sekar Babu, in his defense, had previously asserted that the DMK opposes certain concepts within Sanatana Dharma but welcomes Hindus wholeheartedly and does not hold any animosity towards them.
However, Nirmala Sitharaman pointed out a perceived bias in hate speech, suggesting that such rhetoric appears to be more prevalent against Sanatana Dharma followers because they tend not to retaliate. She challenged those making divisive statements, saying, "They don’t have the spine to speak ill of other religions in such a manner. Let’s see if they do. Isn’t there an issue in other religions? Aren’t women mistreated in other religions? Will you dare to speak on it? Do you have the courage?"
As the controversy continues to escalate, it remains a pressing issue in Tamil Nadu's political landscape, highlighting the delicate balance between freedom of expression and the responsibility of public figures to uphold the constitutional values of unity and diversity. The nation watches closely as the debate unfolds, hoping for a peaceful resolution that respects the sentiments of all its citizens.
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