BJP knows only communal politics, won’t work in TN: Min

HR&CE minister S Ramesh Trichy: There is no room for communal politics in Tamil Nadu, said HR&CE minister S Ramesh in Trichy on Sunday, responding to BJP criticism over the entry of a non-Hindu assistant of PWD minister Aadhav Arjuna into Annamalaiyar temple in Thiruvannamalai during an official inspection.BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran had condemned the entry of a Muslim man wearing a skull cap into the temple along with Aadhav Arjuna, saying it was a violation of temple protocols and high court orders that hurt religious sentiments. Responding to the controversy at a press meet after his visit to Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple, Ramesh said the assistant had signed all the forms required for non-Hindus before entering the temple. “There was no violation of temple protocols,” he said.The minister added that chief minister C Joseph Vijay visits places of worship of all religions. “The chief minister believes all religions are equal and ours. We also follow his path and visit all places of worship. There is no reason to play communal politics in the state,” Ramesh said.“They (BJP leaders) do not know any other politics other than communal politics. They have been trying it for many years. Tamil Nadu is a land of secular social justice. People of all religions are living together in unity,” he said.Ramesh said his department was strictly monitoring all temples, including Ranganathaswamy temple, against overcharging for services. “Anyone charging extra fees beyond approved rates, or collecting money for free services, will face immediate action,” he said. He said disciplinary action had been taken against a person who charged visitors at a free toilet in the Srirangam temple.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Trichy | Silver Rate in Trichy | Bank Holidays in Trichy | Public Holidays in TrichyStay updated with the latest Trichy news. Download the TOI App.