Srinagar, Jan 1, KNT: Awami Ittihad Party President and MLA Langate Engineer Rashid on Thursday criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party over the Haryana government’s decision to introduce compulsory lessons from the Gita in schools, terming the move against the secular character of the country.
In a statement issued to the press, Rashid alleged that making the Gita mandatory in educational institutions reflects what he described as the BJP’s anti minority approach. He claimed that India is a country of diverse religions and communities and that no particular religious scripture should be imposed in schools.
The AIP leader further alleged that the BJP, along with like minded organisations such as RSS, Bajrang Dal and Shiv Sena, was attempting to steer the country towards a Hindu state. He asserted that forcing religious theology in academic institutions was not a civilised approach and could deepen divisions.
Rashid also accused the party of adopting double standards, stating that while some political groups criticised Muslim madrassas, they were simultaneously promoting what he called a communal agenda in mainstream schools.
He said religious sentiments of all communities should be respected, but insisted that imposing a specific religious text in government schools would undermine secular principles. [KNT]
