In a recent interview with Senior Journalist Rangaraj Pandey, the pontiff of the Madurai Adheenam, Sri La Sri Harihara Sri Gnanasambanda Desika Swamigal, opens about his opinion regarding the current DMK rule in Tamil Nadu.
When asked about the functioning of the HR&CE department after the DMK formed the government, the pontiff said, “I feel temples under HR&CE control should not collect fees from devotees for darshan. This is being collected majorly only in temples that are under the HR&CE.”
“Churches and Mosques are not questioned about their expenditure and finances. They are functioning with a lot of freedom. But, temples have to explain why they have spent money, during audit to the HR&CE. In fact, the HR&CE has to be informed while pontiffs take up leadership in Mutts and Adheenams, and they have to give us a nod for us to proceed,” he said.
When asked about the suicide of Lavanya, and the subsequent allegation of forceful conversions, he said, “In my opinion, there is a absolute necessity for anti-conversion laws. It is okay to convert to other religions for a liking of ideology or philosophy. But, it is wrong to forcefully convert people, especially by offering them money.”
When asked about demolition of temples in Tamil Nadu during the DMK rule, he said, “Demolition of temples is not right, and it should not be done. Even if a temple is situated on a land without a Patta, it should not be demolished. It hurts the sentiments of Hindus. Temples are closed during the weekend for COVID, while Liquor shops are open for sale. In an attempt to curb COVID, liquor shops should also be closed.”
Speaking about Sri Lanka, he said, “The mass killing in Sri Lanka in 2009 by the Indian Peace Keeping Force, was worse than the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. The matter has just become a matter of discussion for votes. It is truly saddening that the mass killing was done by the Indian army.” He also mentioned that it was the Congress that was behind this and said, “An entire generation of Tamils were slayed. If they lived, China would not have be able to come near Sri Lanka today. Even fishermen are facing a lot of problems because of this, and the Congress happily gifted Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka.”
He also added that Hindus should be more proud of their identity, and should adorn Hindu symbols more.
(With inputs from Chanakyaa)
Click here to subscribe to The Commune on Telegram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.