Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat harshly criticized Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi on Monday for his recent comments dismissing secularism as a “European concept.” Karat labeled the remarks as “shameful,” reflecting the RSS ideology, and questioned Ravi’s suitability as a constitutional figure.
Karat warned that Governor Ravi’s comments could extend to questioning the Indian Constitution itself, saying, “This reflects the RSS understanding. Tomorrow, he might claim that the Constitution of India is also a foreign concept. It is shameful that such a person has been appointed as the Governor of such an important state as Tamil Nadu,” she told ANI.
Governor’s Controversial Remarks
Governor RN Ravi sparked controversy during a convocation at the Hindu Dharma Vidya Peetham in Kanyakumari, stating that secularism was a European construct and not in line with Bhartiya values. He argued, “Secularism is a European concept, not a Bhartiya concept,” adding that Indians had been misled about its meaning.
Political Backlash
The DMK party swiftly condemned the governor’s remarks, with spokesperson TKS Elangovan pointing out that Article 25 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion. “The Governor should read the Constitution fully. Secularism is not just important in Europe; it’s crucial in India,” he said.
Congress leader P Chidambaram also mocked the governor’s stance, questioning whether the same logic should apply to federalism, democracy, and the principle of one person, one vote, all of which originated in Europe. Chidambaram argued that, by the governor’s reasoning, these too would have no place in India.
Broader Implications
Karat and other opposition leaders view Ravi’s remarks as part of a larger effort to align India’s governance with RSS ideology, potentially undermining the principles enshrined in the Constitution. As criticism mounts, there are growing calls for constitutional figures like Governor Ravi to uphold the values they swore to protect.
