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Ayodhya inauguration: Can oppn counter BJP's grand gambit?

Ayodhya inauguration: Can oppn counter BJP's grand gambit?

The BJP's claim that the Ram Temple Trust is solely responsible for all aspects of the grand inauguration, including invitations, seems disingenuous. It is no secret that this occasion is being used as a symbol of political and religious supremacy, potentially polarizing the nation. While the Ram Temple Trust may oversee the religious aspects, the rapid development of Ayodhya and continuous supervision by the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister suggest deeper government involvement. The Prime Minister's planned inauguration and participation in ceremonies further heighten concerns about politicization.

This puts the Opposition in a difficult position. Their objection to the government's potentially unconstitutional sponsorship and politicization of a major religious event in a secular nation is valid. However, navigating this issue requires political, not religious, judgement, especially in a country with a diverse religious landscape and a tradition of mutual respect and celebration of each other's festivals. It remains to be seen how the divided INDIA coalition will ultimately approach this challenging situation.

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Gujarat's dry paradox: Curious case of soaring liquor permits

SRIDHAR D'IYER, Caranzalem
Published Jan 7, 2024, 12:23 AM IST
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Gujarat's dry paradox: Curious case of soaring liquor permits

Gujarat, unlike most states that have experimented with "on" and "off" periods of liquor prohibition, has maintained a strict ban for decades. So, it came as a surprise to learn that the number of liquor permit holders in Gujarat has increased by 58% in the past three years. These permits are granted to individuals above 40 with diagnosed conditions like insomnia, anxiety, and hypertension, supposedly on "health grounds."This presents a contradiction. While doctors generally…

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