Supreme Court Order Sparks Heated Exchange Between DMK and Tamil Nadu BJP Chief

Introduction: In a recent turn of events, a Supreme Court directive regarding the live telecast of the pran pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya has ignited a war of words between the ruling DMK and Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai. The court’s decision has led to a heated exchange between the political adversaries, with accusations and counter-accusations flying in the air.

The Supreme Court’s Directive: The Supreme Court’s order directed the Tamil Nadu government not to reject requests for the live telecast of the pran prathistha ceremony of the Lord Ram idol in Ayodhya. This decision became the catalyst for the verbal sparring between DMK Spokesperson Saravanan Annadurai and Tamil Nadu BJP Chief K Annamalai.

“Don’t Spread Rumours”: In response to Annamalai’s remarks on the court order, DMK Spokesperson Saravanan Annadurai cautioned, “Don’t spread rumours.” This succinct response from the DMK representative hinted at a disagreement over the interpretation of the court’s decision.

Annamalai’s Perspective: Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai asserted that Lord Ram devotees were free to telecast the consecration event on an LED screen within private premises. He added that intimation should be given in case celebrations are held in the HR&CE-administered temples. Annamalai clarified that there was no ban on conducting bhajans, offering special pooja, or Annadanas.

DMK’s Rebuttal: In a counterargument, a DMK Spokesperson pointed to the Madras High Court’s order, quoting, “It is quite clear that conducting the function, considering the auspicious occasion, singing bhajans/uttering Rama Nama/Annadhanas per se is not prohibited.” This response aimed to debunk Annamalai’s stance and assert the legality of the events.

Governor RN Ravi’s Allegations: Adding fuel to the fire, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi alleged that priests and staff of a Shri Ram temple in Chennai, under the control of the state government, faced ‘repression.’ The governor expressed concern about an ‘invisible fear’ and ‘apprehensions’ among the temple staff, contrasting it with the festive environment across the country.

Government’s Denial: In response to BJP’s allegations of a ‘ban,’ the Tamil Nadu government dismissed the claims, stating that permission was not denied by the HR and CE Department to hold celebrations in temples marking the Ayodhya ceremony.

Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s order has inadvertently become a battleground for political discourse in Tamil Nadu, with the ruling DMK and the BJP engaging in a verbal tussle over the interpretation and implementation of the directive. As the war of words continues, the public watches closely, hoping for a resolution that respects both the court’s decision and religious sentiments.