Why renaming a Chennai road after Father Ezra Sargunam triggered political storm
However, his record was also marred by controversial remarks against Hindus, which BJP leaders have highlighted in their criticism. State BJP president Nainar Nagendran posted a video clip of Ezra Sargunam where he calls Hinduism 'an artificial religion' and urges followers to 'punch them twice in the face,' suggesting that God would forgive such acts.In the same clip, he refers to India as 'a Christian country' and questions the tolerance of Muslims towards Hindus.'Is there no limit to DMK's minority appeasement politics?' asked Nagendran on X, calling the naming 'a shame' and demanding the decision be rolled back. 'Ezra Sargunam was a known Hindu-hater who openly instigated violence against Hindus. The people of Tamil Nadu are watching,' he said.
DMK leader TKS Elangovan dismissed the criticism, saying: 'The road was named after a Britisher earlier. We have now given it an Indian name. BJP is a slave of Britishers if they oppose this. Ezra Sargunam might have criticized Hindus, but even BJP leaders have spoken badly about Muslims and Christians.'BJP's Vinoj Selvam countered, saying: 'DMK is anti-Hindu at its core. Ezra Sargunam called Hinduism a fake concept and incited Muslims to rise against Hindus. The DMK has always backed him, just to appease minorities.'Father Ezra Sargunam, admired in Christian and Dalit circles for his social work, remains a polarizing figure. His contributions to education, inclusivity, and minority rights stand alongside his deeply controversial statements about Hinduism.- EndsMust Watch
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