Staff Reporter
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Thursday raised concerns over the safety of minorities in the country, pointing to recent incidents of violence even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in Christmas celebrations.
In a post on X, Stalin said, “The true strength and character of a majority lie in ensuring that minorities live without fear,” stressing that social harmony depends on protecting vulnerable communities. Referring to attacks allegedly carried out by what he described as “right-wing violent groups,” he remarked that such incidents send a “disturbing message to the nation” when they occur alongside high-profile events like the Prime Minister’s participation in Christmas functions.
Without naming specific organisations, the DMK president said that violence in the name of the majority undermines India’s pluralistic ethos. He cited Manipur as a recent example of prolonged unrest and added that reports of attacks on minorities in places such as Jabalpur and Raipur were “unacceptable to anyone who values harmony.”
Stalin also referred to what he said was a “reported 74 per cent rise in hate speech against minorities” since the Union government led by the BJP assumed office, warning that such trends signal “grave danger ahead” for the country’s social fabric.
Calling for urgent action, the chief minister said curbing riotous groups that seek to divide society is a “shared and urgent duty” of governments and authorities. He urged that this responsibility be enforced “with firm resolve” to ensure peace and security for all citizens.
The statement comes amid ongoing political debate over law and order and the treatment of minorities in different parts of India. By juxtaposing reports of violence with the Prime Minister’s participation in Christmas celebrations, Stalin sought to underline what he described as a troubling contrast between symbolic gestures of inclusivity and the ground realities faced by minority communities.
The BJP has often rejected such accusation asserting its commitment to development and unity, while opposition leaders continue to raise concerns over communal harmony and civil rights.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today attended the Christmas morning service at the Cathedral Church of the Redemption in Delhi. In a social media post, Mr Modi said, the service reflected the timeless message of love, peace and compassion. He hoped that the spirit of Christmas would inspire harmony and goodwill in society.