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Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin stated on Sunday that the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government in the state does not interfere with anyone's religious beliefs.
He also remarked that the DMK's tenure represents a "golden period" for the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department. "The DMK's rule is the golden period for the HR&CE department. It was during the reign of the Justice Party, the precursor to the DMK, that legislation was passed ensuring the right to worship," Udhayanidhi Stalin said while virtually addressing the second day of the global 'Muthamizh Murugan' conference, a religious event dedicated to Lord Muruga, held at Palani in Dindigul district. "Today, if our government is functioning virtuously under the guidance of the Chief Minister, it is due to Shekhar Babu (HR&CE minister). Some have questioned why our DMK government is suddenly hosting this conference. This event is not a spur-of-the-moment decision. Over the past three years, the government, under the leadership of the Chief Minister, has accomplished much on behalf of the Hindu Religious Charities Department, culminating in this conference. The DMK government follows the Dravidian model, which does not oppose anyone's faith," he added. Udhayanidhi Stalin highlighted that the Chief Minister is implementing numerous welfare schemes. He noted that Kumbabhishekam (consecration ceremonies) has been performed for more than 1,400 temples during the DMK's three-year tenure. Additionally, around six thousand acres of land, valued at Rs 5,600 crore, have been reclaimed. He further mentioned, "8,500 temples are being renovated at a cost of Rs 3,800 crore. One lakh devotees are fed daily. As a model for the country, breakfast is provided to around 4,000 students in colleges under the control of Palani Murugan Temple. The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu has also announced that lunch will be served soon. "Our Chief Minister is a pioneer in promoting equality, having appointed priests from all castes and women as an example of inclusivity. The Annai Tamil Archanai program is also being implemented in all temples. Like other departments in Tamil Nadu, the Hindu Religious Charities Department is leading the nation," he added. Thousands of devotees from around the world participated in the conference, including attendees from England, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. The conference aims to highlight the greatness of Lord Murugan on a global stage. Papers on the worship and literary significance of Murugan are being presented at the event. A large number of attendees were seen taking selfies in front of the entrance, which was designed to resemble a hill. Prasad bags were distributed to all attendees by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department. Each bag contained 200 grams of panchamirtham, kumkum, vibhuti, and a laminated picture of Murugan. Over 2,000 police personnel were deployed in and around Palani to ensure security. Yesterday, over 1 lakh people attended the conference, with today marking the second and final day of the event. (ANI)
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