CPM stands by religious neutrality, condemns communal exploitation in Ayyappa Sangamam row

Thrissur: The entry of young women to Sabarimala is a chapter that has passed, said CPM State Secretary MV Govindan. The CPM has never taken, nor will it ever take, a stance against any faith – neither in the past, nor now, nor in future, Govindan stated while speaking to the media.

He emphasised that the vast majority of the country’s population are believers, and it is communal forces who are attempting to exploit the faithful for their own ends. Therefore, it is essential to side with the believers to resist communalism, the CPM State Secretary explained.

Govindan also noted that the decision to organise the Global Ayyappa Sangamam was taken after considering the growing interest from various parts of the world, and that the initiative has received recognition from the Government of India.

He went on to say that communalists are not believers themselves, but merely use religion and faith as tools for political objectives. “Those who exploit religion and faith for political gain are called communalists. They are not true believers. They only use belief as an instrument. The CPM stands with the believers. The party has not, does not, and will not adopt a position against faith,” said M.V. Govindan.