Circular Banning Sami Images in Ayudha Puja and Saraswati Puja Faces Opposition from Tamil Nadu BJP Leader
Chennai: The Tamil Nadu BJP vice-president, Narayanan Tirupathi, has called for the withdrawal of a controversial circular that prohibits the placement of Sami images during Ayudha Puja and Saraswati Puja celebrations. The circular was sent by the Principal of Tirupur Government Medical College to hospitals under his control, stating that “no Sami photo or idol of any religion should be used” during these events.
Tirupathi criticized the circular, stating, “If there are pictures or idols of Sami in the office and hospital wards, they should be removed.” He further alleged that this move by the government is proof of its anti-Hindu stance.
Ayudha Puja and Saraswati Puja are religious events in which Hindus worship their deities using images and idols. The circular emphasizes that no other religious photos should be used during these occasions.
Tirupathi also reminded the Tamil Nadu government that every building in the state is constructed after Bhumi Puja, highlighting the significance of religious rituals in the society. He urged the district administration not to forget this aspect.
Accusing the government of undermining the trust of doctors, patients, and the public, Tirupathi claimed that such actions were solely driven by the intention to gain votes and appease religious minorities. He questioned whether the state government had prevented Christian preachers from visiting hospital wards and engaging in religious activities.
Highlighting the importance of a secular government, Tirupathi stated, “The aim of a secular government is to embrace all religions. On the other hand, if it wants to destroy a religion, the concerned government can only be considered as a religious government.”
The controversial circular has sparked a debate regarding the limits of religious expressions in public institutions and government establishments. While some argue for preserving the sanctity of religious festivities in accordance with the predominant beliefs of the majority community, others emphasize the need for neutrality and inclusivity in a diverse society.
As the issue continues to generate heated discussions, it remains to be seen how the state government will respond to the demands for the withdrawal of the circular.