Parliament Heated as BJP and DMK Clash Over Temple Ritual
A heated exchange occurred in Lok Sabha on Friday between members of the ruling BJP and the opposition DMK regarding a ritual at a temple in Tamil Nadu. The dispute centers around the lighting of a lamp at ‘Deepathoon’, a hilltop temple near a dargah close to Madurai.
DMK Accuses BJP of Stirring Communal Tension
DMK MP T.R. Baalu raised the issue, accusing the BJP of attempting to "ignite" communal tensions in Tamil Nadu. He alleged that the lighting of the lamp was a deliberate act to provoke disharmony.
BJP Retorts, Defends Right to Worship
Union Minister L. Murugan strongly countered Baalu's accusations, criticizing the Tamil Nadu state government for allegedly denying devotees "the right to worship" at the Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple.
Parliamentary Disruption and Adjournment
The DMK members' protests began as soon as the day's proceedings commenced. They stormed the Well of the House in an attempt to raise the issue, which led to the adjournment of Question Hour for approximately 30 minutes.
Controversy Over High Court Judge's Allegiance
During Zero Hour, Baalu claimed that the High Court judge who permitted the lighting of the lamp was influenced by a particular ideology. This statement drew sharp criticism from Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.
Minister Rijiju Defends Judiciary
Kiren Rijiju asserted that the DMK MP could not cast aspersions on a member of the judiciary. He urged the chair to delete the remarks from the record, emphasizing the importance of respecting the independence of the judiciary.
