Religion should always remain free from any coercion : Rajnath

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on May 1, 2018, said that religion is a personal choice and it should always remain free from any coercion or allurement. He was inaugurating a civic reception in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, to honour Philipose Mar Chrysostom Mar Thoma Valiya Metropolitan on completion of 100 years of age.

Singh pointed out that PM Narendra Modi runs a government at the Centre which firmly believes in taking every section of the society along and build a New India. The goal is Development with unity and the dream of making our nation great again can be realised only when the people of India stand united.

The Home Minister said that India has remained united not because one religion or some theological thought held the political power or exercised control over the system. This great nation is united because it provides space to peaceful coexistence of multiple thoughts and theologies. The problems faced by this country had always been addressed through a unique interplay of ideas and the biggest living proof of this interplay of ideas is our Constitution.

Rajnath said that the ‘Sarva Dharma Sambhav’ should be maintained in the country and continue cementing the pillars of united India. He said unity is our strength and we all must work to strengthen the bonds of unity, amity and harmony in our society. Singh said this should be our resolve today when we are celebrating the birth centenary of Mar Chrysostom, according to a PIB release.

The Union Home Minister said the life and work of Mar Thoma Valiya Metropolitan is an inspiration not only to the people of Kerala or to the Christian community, but to the entire nation. His life is a shining example of how God can be worshipped through selfless service for the society and the humanity. Mar Chrysostom has endeared himself to every section of Kerala Society through his inspiring words and works. The basic quality of Mar Chrysostom Metropolitan is his attitude of universal goodwill and his concern for the development and well being of the entire community of citizens, transcending any narrow sectarian consideration.

Considering his valuable contributions to Indian society for well over six decades, the Government of India has conferred ‘Padma Bhushan’ to Mar Chrysostom this year, he said. By felicitating him with ‘Padma Bhushan’, the Government has not only shown respect towards him but also recognised his tremendous contribution, said Union Home Minister. While remaining true to his own Faith Mar Chrysostom has been able to raise himself above all sectarian considerations and divisions.

Rajnath  pointed out that Mar Chrysostom is a man of prayer and he also works as a social reformer. His contribution towards the empowerment of weaker sections of the society is  noteworthy. He has dedicated his life to God through service of fellow human beings, Rajnath added. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan presided over the function.