Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman sparked a debate on Sunday after alleging that the Tamil Nadu government had banned ‘pujas’ for Lord Ram and live telecast of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir inauguration in temples across the state on January 22. Terming the move “anti-Hindu,” she cited a local media report as her source.
Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department Minister Sekar Babu quickly refuted the claims, asserting that ** no such bans** existed for ‘pujas’ or ‘annadhanam’ for Lord Ram in temples under the department’s management. He further clarified that ** privately held temples** were free to conduct events as they saw fit.
Sitharaman’s comments on X ignited further discussion, with many calling for factual verification and urging against pronouncements that could potentially stoke religious tensions. Several users pointed to the department’s official statement denying any restrictions.
It’s important to note that official pronouncements from the relevant authorities haven’t confirmed Sitharaman’s initial claims. The situation remains fluid, and further clarifications are awaited.
Finance Minister’s Claims About Tamil Nadu Temple Restrictions Spark Debate
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman ignited a debate on Sunday with allegations that the Tamil Nadu government had imposed restrictions on ‘pujas’ for Lord Ram and the live telecast of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir inauguration in temples across the state on January 22. Citing a local media report and attributing the move to “law and order” concerns, she termed it an “anti-Hindu” act.
However, Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department Minister Sekar Babu swiftly challenged these claims. In an official statement shared on X, he asserted that no such bans exist in temples under the department’s management, either for ‘pujas’ or ‘annadhanam’ for Lord Ram. He further clarified that privately held temples remained free to hold events as they saw fit.
Sitharaman’s accusation triggered widespread discussion and calls for factual verification. Many users on X highlighted the department’s official statement and urged against pronouncements that could stoke religious tensions.
It’s vital to note that the Union Minister’s initial claims haven’t been confirmed by official pronouncements from relevant authorities. The situation remains fluid, and further clarifications are awaited.