Controversy over singing RSS song in temple festival, Congress demands strict action

A controversy has arisen over the singing of ‘Gana Geetham‘ i.e. RSS prayer song in the temple located in Kottukkal in Kollam district of Kerala. This song was sung during a ‘Gana Mela’ (music festival) on Sunday morning, which was performed by a professional music troupe. This temple comes under the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB). Congress has termed this incident serious and demanded strict action against those responsible.

Allegations of putting up RSS flags in the temple premises

According to the local police, during this program, RSS flags were also allegedly put up in the temple premises, due to which the controversy is deepening further. Congress says that using religious places for political purposes in this way is not only condemnable but also a violation of court orders. People are also angry about this matter.

Opposition leader cornered Devaswom Board and government

Leader of Opposition in the Assembly VD Satheeshan termed the incident a “matter of grave concern” and demanded immediate action from the Devaswom Board. He said, “There is a clear order of the Kerala High Court that temple premises should not be used for any political event. Still, it is very unfortunate that such activity is taking place in a temple under a government board.” He said, “Temples belong to the devotees, not to any organisation. Giving a political colour to religious places shows narrow-mindedness.”

Demand for immediate action from the government, hints of investigation

VD Satheeshan also made it clear that if such incidents are not stopped, then this can become a dangerous tradition. He has appealed to the government and the Devaswom Board to take a tough stand and identify those responsible and take legal action against them. On the other hand, the police say that initial information about the case is being gathered and a conclusion will be reached only after investigation. This entire case has created a stir in the politics of the state and now everyone’s eyes are fixed on the next step of the government.