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STAFF REPORTER
NEW DELHI -- 7th April: "Religion is opium of the masses", the basic philosophy of Communists, at least does not hold true in strongest Communist bastion of the country, West Bengal. Politicians cutting across the party lines and even religions are queuing outside temples and mosques to win election. What is true for West Bengal is also true for the rest of the country.
Daring to flout the Fatwa and even ready to face the tag of Kaffir, Muslim politicians are out in big numbers and offering obeisance to Hindu deity, which according to Islam is a serious offence. Leading the crowd of Muslim politicians offering Puja at Hindu temple, is none other than senior CPI (M) leader Mohammed Salim, a sitting Member of Parliament, from West Bengal.
He had sipped the 'Charan-Amrit', ceremonial sacred water off the idol, that had led to major controversy and hoardings were put up in Kolkata, against a Communist leader performing Puja, consuming Prasad and practising the politics of appeasement. Far away in South India, a few voices were raised but no Fatwa or protest. The other incident has been reported from Hindutava strong hold, Madhya Pardesh, where BJP is in power. It involves Congress leader and former hockey player Aslam Sher Khan, who is contesting on Congress ticket in the State. Khan has also visited a temple to seek blessings for his victory in the Lok Sabha polls.
Hindu politicians, known for playing Muslim card by donning skullcap and throwing Iftaars include none other than Ulema Vajpayee, Advani and Maulana Mulayam. They are known for wearing the skullcap and hosting Iftaars or meeting Ulemas. They have also visited Dargahs lately. Interestingly, the most peculiar reaction on this new development of Muslim politician imitating their act, has come from BJP. It says that such Muslim politicians are not secular as they are participating in religious activities. Senior BJP leader and national executive member Tathagata Roy says, " I have personally witnessed Salim, CPI (M) leader participating in the religious event and that is why he can not be secular.
With elections just 12 days from now, we will see more interesting news and mini-controversies propped up every day. Hope the mature electorates see through the games of politicians of all hues and cry and vote on merit. |