Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Thursday cited a reported 74 per cent rise in hate speeches against minorities since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power at the Centre, saying it was a sign of grave danger ahead.
He said that despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending Christmas celebrations, the attacks by some “right-wing violent groups” send a worrying message to the country.
“When some right-wing violent groups, acting in the name of the majority, carry out attacks and riots while the Prime Minister is attending Christmas celebrations, it sends a worrying message to the nation,” Stalin posted on Twitter.
Citing alleged reports of attacks on minorities in Jabalpur and Raipur, he said this was unacceptable for those who value harmony.
“After Manipur, reports of attacks on minorities in Jabalpur, Raipur and elsewhere are unacceptable to anyone who values harmony,” Stalin said.
“The 74 per cent increase in hate speeches against minorities since the BJP government came to power at the Center indicates a grave danger. Therefore, curbing rioting groups that divide the society is a shared and urgent duty, which must be implemented with determination,” he said.
He said that “the true strength and character of the majority lies in ensuring that the minorities can live without any fear”.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday wished the people of India and the world a Merry Christmas, and also paid tribute to Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Bharat Ratna Madan Mohan Malviya and Maharaja Bijli Pasi on their birth anniversary.
Addressing a gathering in Lucknow, the Prime Minister said that on December 25, which has religious and historical significance, the city is getting a new source of inspiration.
Prime Minister Modi said, “Today the land of Lucknow is witnessing a new inspiration. I wish the country and the world a very Merry Christmas. Lakhs of Christian families in India are celebrating this festival today. We all wish that the spirit of Christmas brings happiness in everyone’s life.”