Togadia likens Kerala government to Aurangazeb

Kochi, Sep 16 (UNI) Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) Secretary-General Praveen Togadia today alleged that the Kerala government's attitude of controlling the temples in the state was similar to that of Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb, who had demolished Hindushrines in the country.

Talking to newspersons here, Mr Togadia alleged that the state government's attitude was against the secular framework of the country.

''The government is not controlling any church or mosque in the state. But why are they showing discrimination against the temples,''he sought to know.

''In a secular framework, the state is not supposed to interfere in the affairs of the temples,'' he noted.

Taking strong exception to the state government's decision to honour renowed painter M F Hussain with the Raja Ravi Varma Award, Mr Togadia said '' the artist has'' wounded the sentiments of the Hindus by depicting Hindu Gods and Godesses in a completely unacceptable manner.'' He urged the government to revoke its decision to honour Mr Hussain.

When asked about the state government's plan to allow entry of non-Hindus into temples, Mr Togadia said ''anyone can enter the temple, provided the person has faith and belief in the deity ''.

Reacting to the Centre's decision to suspend two ASI officials in connection with the 'Ram Sethu' issue, Mr Togadia said the officials were made scapegoats as the Centre was responsible for the affidavit filed in the Supreme Court.

UNI