Tiruppur Medical College Allegedly Bans Religious Idols/Pics For Ayudha Pooja, Sparks Political Backlash, Denies Having Sent Circular

Controversy flared in Tamil Nadu following a circular issued by the Dean of Tiruppur Government College Hospital regarding the celebration of Ayudha Puja in the college premises. The circular has sparked a debate surrounding the use of images of deities and idols during the festival.

According to reports, the hospital’s Dean, Murugesan, sent a circular on 12 October 2023 to the Superintendent, Medical Officer, Administrative Officer, and Nurses of the Tiruppur Government Medical College Hospital. In this circular, it was explicitly mentioned that, as per the instructions of the Collector, Ayudha Puja and Saraswati Puja celebrations should not involve the use of any images or idols of deities. It stated, “On the days of Ayudha Pooja and Saraswati Puja, no objects resembling idols or photos of deities from any religion should be displayed. If such items are present, they should be removed with future concerns in mind. This circular is issued as per the guidance of the District Collector.”

The directive went on to state that any pictures and idols of deities present in offices and hospital wards should be promptly removed to prevent any potential issues. Nursing supervisors were tasked with ensuring that no pictures or idols of deities were present in any section of the hospital.

This announcement has caused quite a stir, with some individuals expressing concerns that it may be perceived as an affront to Hindu religious practices. Critics have accused the government of undermining the trust of doctors, patients, and the public by allegedly engaging in activities that could alienate religious minorities.

Narayanan Tirupathi, Vice President of the Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), expressed his dismay, stating that Ayudha Puja should involve the celebration of Hindu gods and there should not be any restriction on religious symbols. He emphasised that a secular government should embrace all religions and that any attempt to suppress a particular religion could be seen as endorsing a religious agenda.

The controversy took an intriguing twist when it was revealed that the circular, issued by the Dean, was initially verified as authentic. However, following strong condemnations, criticisms, and protests on social media, the hospital administration reportedly backtracked and sent a denial message with the Dean’s signature, labelling the news as fake. Despite these developments, it is evident that this issue has sparked a public debate.

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