Pawan Kalyan urges Centre for law to protect Sanatana Dharma

TIRUMALA: Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan expressed concerns over what he described as suppression of Hindu voices under the guise of secularism.

Speaking at a public meeting in Tirupati on Thursday, Kalyan called on the Central Government to introduce a robust law to protect Sanatana Dharma and implement it effectively. He also released a declaration outlining suggestions to the Centre.

Kalyan urged the government to enact a law that responds uniformly to offenses against all religions and faiths. He proposed the formation of a Sanatana Dharma Protection Committee, with annual funding from the Centre to support its activities. Additionally, he recommended establishing a certification system to ensure the quality of items used in temple offerings, and transforming temples into multi-faceted centers of spirituality, education, arts, economy, and environmental preservation.

Criticising what he perceives as selective outrage, Kalyan noted that whenever other religions are criticized, actors, the film industry, and business leaders speak out, but there is little reaction when attacks occur against Sanatana Dharma. He pointed out a rise in incidents targeting Hindu deities, emphasizing that Lord Rama is the backbone of the nation. Kalyan stated his respect for all religions and mentioned that Sanatana Dharma wishes for the well-being of all living beings in nature. He called for people to raise their voices boldly against attacks on Sanatana Dharma, transcending regions and political affiliations.

Kalyan shared his personal experiences, mentioning that he faced ridicule for practising Sanatana Dharma and for his penance. He reiterated that Sanatana Dharma never seeks exclusive well-being for a few and lamented that some want to see its end. He called for unity among Hindus, stating that the time had come for all to unite.

He attributed attacks on Sanatana Dharma to a lack of unity within the Hindu community, which he said has been divided by caste and regional lines. He expressed regret over the fear among Hindus to openly discuss their faith and criticised how, under the guise of secularism, Hindu voices are being stifled.