Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Accuses Vijay Government of Interfering in Hindu Religious Practices

In a statement, Nagenthran claimed that preparations were underway for a Christian prayer meeting near a 400-year-old Shiva temple at Lingamalai, close to Malampatti, despite restrictions on such activities.

He alleged that the gathering was planned for November 24, coinciding with the Maha Karthigai festival, near a cross that he claimed had been erected without authorisation.

Highlighting the site's historical importance, the BJP leader referred to its Chola-era inscriptions, sculptures, a Nandi statue and the ancient Shiva temple. He also condemned an alleged assault on a Hindu devotee, identified as Marimuthu, who reportedly objected to the proposed gathering.

Nagenthran accused the state government of obstructing Hindu religious traditions and questioned its handling of matters concerning religious practices.

He drew a parallel with the controversy over the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam at Thiruparankundram hill in Madurai, alleging that the administration had restricted established Hindu customs.

The BJP state president urged Vijay to demonstrate through concrete measures that his government protects the religious rights of people from all communities.

H. Raja raises separate objections

Senior BJP leader H. Raja also accused the government of undermining Hindu customs and traditions.

Raja questioned alleged restrictions on the traditional practice of admitting children to schools on Vijayadashami, describing the ceremony as an important part of Hindu culture.

He also referred to Madurai Central MLA Mustafa's visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple and criticised what he characterised as the attitude of some ruling party representatives towards Hindu religious sentiments.

Raja further questioned the government's claims of secularism, citing the religious affiliations of senior constitutional functionaries and ministers.

Both BJP leaders called on the government to avoid interference in Hindu religious affairs and ensure equal protection for all religious communities.

The state government had not issued an official response to the allegations at the time of publication.