Sanjay Nirupam Advocates for Cultural Integrity on Raksha Bandhan Amid Hijab Controversy
Mumbai, August 30: Sanjay Nirupam, spokesperson for Shiv Sena, has voiced his support for the NHRC’s directive regarding Raksha Bandhan. He emphasized that this festival is a cultural celebration in India and should not be associated with religion. He stated that the issue of the hijab is separate, as it pertains to national security, and that religious displays in public spaces like schools and colleges are inappropriate.
Nirupam remarked, “Raksha Bandhan is a cultural festival in India. It should not be linked to any religion. When NHRC members instruct schools that children should not be stopped from tying rakhi on this day, the same principle should apply if girls come wearing mehndi, regardless of their religion.”
He insisted that these two topics should not be conflated with the hijab. The hijab is a religious tradition that has direct implications for the security of the country. There is potential for misuse under the guise of wearing a hijab.
The Shiv Sena leader referenced a ruling by the Allahabad High Court, which affirmed that Muslim girls have the right to wear hijabs. However, he noted that this right does not extend to public spaces, schools, and colleges due to security concerns. He stated that public displays of religious conduct should be limited to temples, mosques, and homes, as it does not create issues in those settings.
Regarding the resignation of a Congress leader over a corruption scandal in Karnataka, Nirupam commented, “Minister B. Nagendra resigned after being implicated in a scam related to the corporation formed in the name of Lord Valmiki. The Congress party often gives grand speeches about the rights of SC/ST communities. They should be ashamed that they are looting the very programs and corporations meant for their welfare. How can they ensure justice for SC/ST communities?”
He further criticized the Congress party, noting that it has been only a few months since D.K. Shivakumar became Chief Minister, yet a significant scandal has already emerged, showcasing the party’s true character.
On the controversy surrounding the publication of Sonia Gandhi’s book, Nirupam stated, “Only she and her author know what is written in the book. If any publisher disagrees with its content, they have every right to refuse publication. The uproar from Congress members about this and their claims of civil liberties are absurd.”
He added, “If Penguin India refuses to publish your book, there are plenty of other publishers in India. However, creating pressure and making noise to force Penguin India to comply is inappropriate.”
