The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Tourism and Culture, Dr Mahesh Sharma has erred in his statements. Since India has been a cradle of civilizations, many scriptures like the Mahabharata, Ramayana, Bhagwad Geeta, Guru Granthsahib etc have been composed by India. But Christianity and Islam have also been existing in India for centuries now, making India a melting pot of different cultures. The world respects India for its diversity. Unlike China, even the most miniscule denomination was respected and recognized by the Indian nation. Hence, the only soul of India is the Constitution of India, which is the highest book of law in India.
Dr Mahesh Sharma as well as other law-makers take the oath to their office, by “affirming to bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution”, and not to any religious scripture. As per the existing secular character of India, the Ramayan, Bible, Quran or any other scripture are at par with each other as none is higher than the other.
Another controversial remark by Dr Sharma was regarding the night-outs by women. He states that night-outs by girls are against Western culture. Dr Sharma should understand that he cannot dictate what other women wish to do. Each person has the freedom to act as per his conscience and belief. The State has no duty to meddle in the privacy of an individual. Also, if Dr Sharma is against night-outs, does it mean he is also against ‘night-life tourism’? If yes, does it mean the Union Tourism Ministry will kill night-life tourism in places like Goa?
The Union Culture Ministry’s website describes Dr Sharma as a ‘dedicated follower of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) since childhood’. Are these the ‘sanskars’ he has received in his Sunday ‘shakhas’? Dr Sharma should keep his personal opinions to himself.
‘Culture’ is a very wide and dynamic concept. Culture evolves every day. The State cannot dictate to its people, what culture should be like. If the people wish to follow or not follow any aspect of their domestic or foreign culture, can the State stop them? Similarly, India’s culture speaks of ‘vasudhaiva kutumbakam’ (world as a family) and the concept is quoted by the pm quite often.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants to develop India into a world-class tourist destination. Several places in India, including Goa, rely heavily on tourism for the survival of the economy. Dr Sharma’s opinions will only lead to having a detrimental effect on the inflow of tourists.
