Introduction:
In a recent turn of events, the Supreme Court’s directive regarding the live telecast of the pran prathistha ceremony in Ayodhya has ignited a war of words between the ruling DMK and the Tamil Nadu BJP. The dispute revolves around the court’s instruction to the state government not to reject requests for the live transmission of the consecration event. Let’s delve into the exchange of statements and perspectives that unfolded in the aftermath of this significant court order.
The DMK’s Response:
As Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai voiced his opinion on the court order, DMK Spokesperson Saravanan Annadurai had a sharp rejoinder, urging him not to spread rumors. Annadurai emphasized that the court’s decision does not prohibit conducting religious functions, bhajans, or Annadanas, quoting the Madras High Court’s explicit clarification on the matter.
Annamalai’s Stance:
Annamalai, in his response, clarified that devotees are free to telecast the consecration event on LED screens within private premises. He added that intimation should be given if celebrations are planned in temples administered by the HR&CE department. According to Annamalai, there is no ban on bhajans, special poojas, or Annadanas, and the court has not prohibited such activities.
Governor RN Ravi’s Allegations:
Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi added another layer to the controversy by alleging that priests and staff at a Shri Ram temple in Chennai, under the state government’s control, faced repression during the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ celebrations. Ravi’s statements seemed to support the BJP’s accusations of a ban imposed by the DMK regime on public celebrations and screenings related to the consecration.
The Governor, during his visit to Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple in Chennai, expressed concern about an “invisible fear” and “apprehensions” among the temple staff. This, he claimed, was in stark contrast to the festive atmosphere prevailing in the rest of the country during the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya.
The Government’s Denial:
In response to the BJP’s allegations, the Tamil Nadu government dismissed claims that permission was denied by the HR and CE Department to hold celebrations in temples for the Ayodhya ceremony. The government maintains that there is no ban on such events and activities.
Conclusion:
The Supreme Court’s directive on the live telecast of the pran prathistha ceremony has stirred a heated exchange between the DMK and Tamil Nadu BJP, bringing to light differing interpretations and perspectives on the court order. As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the situation will evolve and whether further clarification or resolution will be provided by the concerned authorities.