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The recent statement by Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, declaring secularism a 'European concept' with no relevance to India, has ignited a heated debate and drawn sharp criticism from political leaders and the public. This declaration, delivered at a public event in Kanniyakumari, has further strained the already tense relationship between the governor and the state's ruling DMK government. The governor's previous remarks on Mahatma Gandhi and his withholding of bills passed by the assembly have already fueled tensions. This latest statement has been seen as a blatant disregard for the fundamental principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
The governor's claim that secularism is a foreign concept, a product of a struggle between the church and the king in Europe, directly contradicts the reality of India's secular identity. The term 'secular' was explicitly incorporated into the Preamble of the Indian Constitution in 1976, through the 42nd amendment, signifying the nation's commitment to upholding the separation of religion from the state. This principle, enshrined in the Constitution, ensures that all citizens are treated equally regardless of their religious beliefs.
Opposition leaders have vehemently condemned the governor's statement. CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat asserted that secularism is a cornerstone of the Indian Constitution and questioned the governor's oath-taking in the name of the very Constitution he now seems to undermine. CPI leader D Raja further underscored the constitutional basis of India's secular identity, emphasizing the rejection of a theocratic system by the architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Congress leader P Chidambaram, drawing a parallel to other foundational principles like federalism and democracy, questioned the governor's logic, arguing that their European origins do not negate their importance in India's governance.
The DMK, the ruling party in Tamil Nadu, has also condemned the governor's remarks, highlighting the importance of secularism in India. DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan pointed out that the governor seems to be unfamiliar with the Constitution, particularly Article 25, which guarantees freedom of religion. The governor's statements, particularly his previous actions like depicting the Tamil poet-saint Thiruvalluvar in saffron robes, have been seen by many as an attempt to impose a particular ideology on the state, raising concerns about the governor's understanding and commitment to the pluralistic nature of Indian society.
The controversy sparked by the governor's remarks has once again brought to the forefront the vital importance of secularism in India. It has also exposed the growing tensions between the state government and the governor, raising concerns about the role of the governor in a democratic system. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the governor will retract his statement and acknowledge the central role of secularism in the Indian Constitution. This incident underscores the need for a nuanced and informed understanding of India's secular identity and the importance of upholding the constitutional values that guarantee equality and inclusivity for all citizens.
Source: "Democracy Also...": Row Over Tamil Nadu Governor's "Secularism" Remark