School children dressed as Ramayana characters perform at the 'Ram Yatra' tourism event in Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu.
Left has given fodder to RSS by opposing Hindu events: Political analyst
Secularism isn't atheism, says R Rangaraj, adding that 'overreacting' to the TN tourism department's Dhanushkodi Ram Yatra gives political ammunition to the RSS
"Secularism does not mean atheism or anti-Hinduism. By opposing every Hindu religious activity, left-wing parties like the CPI(M) are inadvertently giving political fodder to the BJP and RSS," says political analyst R Rangaraj in an interview with The Federal.
His comments come amid mounting political controversy over a 'Ram Yatra' organised on September 27 at Dhanushkodi by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department in association with a private trust, where over 500 school children gave a performance dressed in saffron attire as Ramayana characters.
The event drew sharp criticism from alliance partners who questioned the religious framing and use of saffron attire in a state-sponsored programme.
Rangaraj to spoke about whether the tourism department exceeded secular boundaries, how Dravidian political parties balance faith and statecraft, and why opposing normal religious activities ultimately strengthens right-wing narratives.
Watch the video to know more.
