In a recent incident that sparked outrage in North Vijayanarayanam village, Tirunelveli district, workers from the Palayamkottai CSI Council have been accused of insulting the local deity, Vijayanarayana Othappanai Sudalai. The incident occurred a day after the endowment ceremony of the Arulmiku Othappanai Sudalai temple.
Local villagers, along with members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, took action by handing over the accused council workers to the police. The workers were reportedly engaged in religious propaganda, attempting to sway devotees and undermine their faith.
The council workers were found distributing leaflets and recording the number of households in each village, which seemed to be a clear indication of their intention to promote their religious agenda without the necessary permissions. This act was perceived as a direct affront to the long-standing religious beliefs of the Hindu community in the area.
In response to the incident, calls have been made for the implementation of a Prohibition of Religious Conversion Act to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Apology Issued By Palayamkottai CSI Council
Following the backlash, the Palayamkottai CSI Council issued an apology, acknowledging their actions and the distress caused. The council admitted that on 30 June 2024, at around 11:00 AM, they visited the predominantly Hindu village of Vijayanarayanam without obtaining the necessary permission to conduct their campaign. They expressed regret for any offence caused and committed to refraining from entering the village or distributing leaflets without proper authorization in the future.
The council assured the community that should they fail to adhere to these guidelines, they would accept the legal consequences as per police regulations. The apology emphasized their pledge to respect the religious sentiments of the community and avoid any actions that might undermine the faith of the local devotees.
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