AMN /
Chief Justice of India T S Thakur has said the debate on intolerance in the country may have political dimensions but nobody needs to worry till the Supreme Court is there to uphold the rule of law.
In an informal meeting with journalists at his residence in New Delhi today, Justice Thakur said the judiciary is committed to maintain the rule of law and protect rights of all communities. He, however, said Court orders can not stop all crimes in the society.
Recently, reported growing intolerance issue has been talking point in the country and opposition parties are continuously targeting NDA government over the issue. Some intellectuals and artists have also returned their awards to protest against the alleged intolerance incidents.
He pointed to political aspects or “siyasi pahlu” in the intolerance controversy, but refused to elaborate. “As long as rule of law is there, as long as there is an independent judiciary and as long as courts are upholding the rights and obligations, I do not think anyone has to fear for anything.”
His remarks came at a time of heightened tension between the BJP-led NDA government and the Opposition, which has been disrupting this winter session of Parliament over incidents of intolerance such as the murder of rationalists for their independent views on social and religious matters and the lynching of a Muslim man in Uttar Pradesh for allegedly slaughtering a cow.
Justice Thakur said he was not referring to any particular incident, but asserted that India has been home to all religions and even those who were persecuted in other countries have thrived here.
It is such a big country. Some discordant notes will be there, he said.