Secularism ‘bitter’ for BJP, TN CM Stalin alleges desperate attempt to delete from Constitution

Chennai: At a Christmas event in Tirunelveli, Stalin criticised the BJP, claiming that the party finds the concept of secularism “bitter” and is desperate to remove it from India’s Constitution.

He warned that the party’s aim is to undermine diversity and establish a one-religion, one-language, one-party model.

Celebrating minority welfare and education:

Stalin praised Sarah Tucker College for empowering women in southern Tamil Nadu. He highlighted his government’s efforts to support minorities, including enhanced subsidies for Jerusalem pilgrimages, refurbishment of 16 churches costing ₹2.15 crore, renovations of ancient churches in 12 districts at ₹20 crore, and allocation of lands for new cemeteries in six districts.

Protection of minority institutions:

The CM emphasised that teacher selection in minority institutions is managed solely by representatives of those institutions, ensuring no discrimination. He asserted that his administration has fulfilled all renovation and support initiatives without bias.

Stalin said some groups aim to disturb peace and divide communities, but Tamil Nadu stands for brotherhood and rationality. He reaffirmed his government’s opposition to the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), contrasting the DMK’s stance with AIADMK support for the law.

Christmas as a festival of equality:

Stalin noted the continuous efforts of MLA S Inigo Irudayaraj in organising Christmas functions as celebrations of unity and equality for 15 years. He described these events as promoting love, harmony, and inclusion across religious communities.

He warned that the BJP-led central government may attempt to interfere with voting in Tamil Nadu but asserted confidence that the state and DMK have the strength to counter such moves and protect the secular and pluralistic fabric of society.
(With PTI inputs)