Tamil Nadu Governor Sparks Debate on Secularism

Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi declared secularism as a European concept irrelevant to India, sparking criticism from political leaders. DMK and CPI leaders condemned his remarks, emphasizing the importance of secularism in the Indian Constitution. The debate highlights contrasting views on secularism's role in India.

On Monday, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi ignited controversy by declaring secularism a European concept unsuitable for India. Speaking at the Hindu Dharma Vidya Peetham convocation in Thiruvattar, Kanyakumari, Ravi asserted, 'Many frauds have been committed against the people of this country, including misinterpreting secularism. Secularism is a European concept, not a Bhartiya one.'

He further elaborated that secularism should remain in Europe, where it originated amid conflicts between church and state. 'In India, there is no need for secularism. How can India be separated from 'Dharma'?' Ravi questioned.

His remarks provoked backlash from political figures, including DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan, who criticized the Governor's understanding of the Indian Constitution. 'Secularism is essential for India, not Europe. Article 25 guarantees religious freedom. Governor Ravi should read the Constitution,' Elangovan argued. Additionally, CPI leader D Raja condemned the Governor's stance, emphasizing that secularism keeps religion and politics separate. 'The Constitution defines India as a secular democratic republic. Ambedkar rejected theocratic concepts explicitly,' Raja stated.

This is not the first instance of Governor Ravi making such claims. Last year, he accused those wishing to break the country of distorting secularism's meaning. 'Our Constitution upholds 'dharma,' not against it. Those talking about eradicating Hinduism have hidden agendas to divide India with foreign influences. They will not succeed as Bharat has inherent strength,' Ravi remarked.

(With inputs from agencies.)