‘Opportunity to prove Indian Muslims love Tricolour': Chhattisgarh Waqf Board chief asks mosques to hoist flag on Independence Day
While over 70% of mosques, madrasas and dargahs have given a positive response, some have objected, Raj said.
The circular issued on Monday to all mosques, madrasas and dargahs said, 'On the auspicious occasion of this national festival, the national flag should be hoisted at the main gate of all mosques/madrasas/dargahs situated in Chhattisgarh state. Understand the importance of Independence Day and maintain the dignity of this occasion by showing patriotism, mutual unity and brotherhood.'
Asked why Raj, a BJP leader, felt the need to issue such a circular and whether it was his party's idea, he said, 'No, it was my own idea. The Har Ghar Tiranga (Tricolour in every home) campaign is underway, so what is the problem in hoisting the Indian flag outside religious places? The patriotism of Muslims in India was being doubted, but Indian Muslims love their country. However, they were being doubted due to Pakistani Muslims… So, it is an opportunity to prove that Indian Muslims love the Tricolour and the country, and to clear any doubts. Also, we said the flag can be hoisted outside the main gate.'
For a week now, Raj has been discussing the matter with Mutwallis. 'Several hundreds of mosques and dargahs said they would hoist the flag, while some are objecting to it. The 1857 uprising was for our freedom when everyone fought together. The flag is about freedom and not religion,' he said.
'Flag hoisting is a symbol of our respect and pride. The ones who do not love the country and the Tricolour… such people have no right to live on the land of mother Bharat,' he said.
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