Religious Freedom Under Scrutiny: TN Government's Decision to Prohibit Live Telecast of Ayodhya Ram Mandir Events Draws Criticism
In a controversial decision, the Tamil Nadu government has enforced a ban on the live telecast of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir programs scheduled for January 22, 2024. This move has stirred strong reactions, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressing her discontent and condemning the restrictions imposed on religious celebrations.
Nirmala Sitharaman's Critique:
Taking to social media, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman voiced her concern over the ban, particularly highlighting the irony of Tamil Nadu, a state with over 200 temples dedicated to Lord Ram, facing restrictions on religious activities associated with Shri Ram. Sitharaman criticized the prohibition on puja, bhajan, prasadam, and annadanam, stating that such measures impede the religious sentiments of the people.
Allegations of Law and Order Claims:
Sitharaman dismissed the unofficial claims of the Tamil Nadu government regarding law and order issues justifying the ban on live telecast. She labeled it as a false and misleading narrative, emphasizing that there were no such issues on significant days like the Ayodhya verdict or when PM Narendra Modi laid the foundation of the Ram Temple. Sitharaman called for reconsideration of the decision, citing the impact on the freedom of religious expression.
The ban on the live telecast of Ayodhya Ram Mandir programs in Tamil Nadu has triggered criticism from Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The situation unfolds against the backdrop of religious sentiment, prompting concerns about the impact on the freedom of religious expression in the state.
