Christians and Muslims have freedom of religion, but Hindus do not

Statement by Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan

Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Pawan Kalyan

Madurai (Tamil Nadu) – Christians enjoy the freedom to remain Christians, and Muslims to remain Muslims, but when a Hindu speaks about his religion, he is labelled a ‘religious fanatic’. This is nothing but fake secularism, said Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan. He was speaking at the ‘Muruga Bhaktaragal Manadu’ program organized by the Hindu Munnani (Hindu Front) in Madurai.

Present at the event were BJP leader K Annamalai, members of the AIADMK, and a large gathering of devotees. Pawan Kalyan also expressed grief over the mockery of sacred hymns such as the ‘Kanda Shashti Kavacham’. He appealed to all Hindus to unite and protect their faith.

Pawan Kalyan further said:

1. Hindu gods are being targeted in the name of freedom of expression

Secularism should mean equal treatment of all religions, but today Hindu gods are being repeatedly targeted under the guise of free speech, which is deeply troubling.

2. ‘Secularism’ and ‘freedom of expression’ have become weapons for some

If this dangerous trend continues, it will become increasingly difficult to protect our religion and traditions. Terms like ‘secularism’ and ‘freedom of expression’ are being misused as tools by some groups.

3. The patience of Hindus should not be mistaken for weakness

Hindus have been patient, but that should not be seen as a weakness. If you cannot respect our faith, then at least do not insult it.

4. My faith deserves respect too

I am not a fundamentalist. I am a devoted Hindu. I respect Christianity and Islam, and in return, I demand that my faith be respected as well.

5. Issues raised at Hindu conferences in Tamil Nadu are extremely serious

The concerns being voiced at Hindu conferences in Tamil Nadu are serious. These divisive narratives being spread in society are dangerous and must be addressed.