Chennai, Apr 28: M. Veerapandian on Monday criticised Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar for his recent comments on India’s cultural identity, calling them inconsistent with the Constitution and the country’s pluralistic character.
In a statement, the CPI leader said the Governor, while addressing the 75th year celebrations of Sri Agarwal Sabha in Chennai, had remarked that describing India as a land of diverse cultures was “incorrect” and that the country followed a single, unified culture from north to south.
Condemning the remarks, Veerapandian argued that such views contradict India’s long-standing diversity and constitutional values. He alleged that the comments reflected the ideological stance of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which, he said, promotes the idea of “one nation, one culture, one language.”
He emphasised that India is home to multiple ethnicities, languages, religions, and cultural traditions. Even within a single religion, he noted, there are vast differences in practices, languages, and beliefs. He added that Indian society includes followers of different faiths, interfaith families, those who uphold secular values, and atheists—all of whom have coexisted for generations.
Alleging attempts to impose a singular cultural identity aligned with Hindutva ideology, Veerapandian said using the Governor’s office for such messaging goes against constitutional principles. He further stated that it was inappropriate for a constitutional authority entrusted with upholding the Constitution to act contrary to democratic norms.
He warned that if such statements continue, the party would organise protests condemning the Governor’s remarks.