Mumbai, October 6 (Daily Kiran) : Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Nirupam recently addressed the ongoing debate regarding non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja. He stated that Hindu and Sanatan traditions cannot be confined to vegetarianism alone. India has a historical tradition of meat consumption, which holds significance in certain religious practices. Nirupam urged respect for the sentiments of devotees in Bengal and all Hindu worshippers regarding this matter.
While he personally does not advocate for excessive meat consumption, he argued against the outright rejection of non-vegetarian food. He referenced the tradition of animal sacrifice during Navratri and Navami, explaining that it has been a long-standing practice in some regions. After an animal is sacrificed, its meat is often cooked and offered as prasad to the deity, which devotees then consume. Nirupam emphasized that India has never been a completely vegetarian nation. He acknowledged that while it is acceptable to oppose the consumption of revered animals, disregarding traditions where animals are offered to deities could hurt the feelings of devotees, particularly those from Bengal.
Nirupam also criticized the opposition’s recent march against the Election Commission, which saw around 150 to 200 MPs participate. He described this as an attempt to protect political parties and leaders rather than to safeguard democracy. He asserted that the Chief Election Commissioner and the Election Commission operate under constitutional provisions, functioning as an autonomous body independent of governmental control. Therefore, portraying the commission as succumbing to political pressure is inappropriate.
Defending the Special Identity Registration (SIR) process, Nirupam labeled it a necessary initiative to correct voter lists. He pointed out that many names on these lists belong to deceased individuals, those who have changed residences, or those registered in multiple locations. Rectifying these discrepancies is crucial for ensuring genuine and eligible voter participation in elections. He accused the opposition of creating a narrative of “vote theft” concerning the SIR process, suggesting they were attempting to mask their electoral losses. A deceased person’s name remaining on the voter list should not be classified as vote theft; similarly, consolidating a voter’s registration should not be deemed improper.
He highlighted the need for accurate and updated voter lists, referencing the presence of multiple registrations for the same individual in Maharashtra. The SIR initiative is currently underway in various states, including Bihar, Bengal, and Maharashtra. He dismissed the opposition’s claims, stressing that maintaining the accuracy of voter lists is essential for the democratic process.
Regarding the controversy surrounding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Nirupam noted that the matter is currently before the Supreme Court. He maintained that discussing ongoing court cases is inappropriate until a final decision is rendered.
On the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi completing 25 years in public office, Nirupam expressed his admiration. He acknowledged the challenge of maintaining a continuous presence in public life for such a long period. Modi has served as both the Chief Minister of Gujarat and the Prime Minister of India, focusing on development and good governance initiatives. Nirupam characterized Modi as a strict administrator who consistently emphasizes the implementation of plans by officials and ministers. He concluded by wishing Modi continued success in his efforts for the country’s development and the welfare of its citizens.
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