India is a constitutional democracy, not a religious state; Samajwadi MP Zia-ur Rehman Barq warns against mixing religion with politics
AYODHYA/NEW DELHI – A political row has erupted after Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday hoisted a religious flag at the newly completed Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Samajwadi Party MP from Sambhal, Zia-ur Rehman Barq, has strongly objected, saying that the prime minister, as the head of a constitutional democracy, must maintain equal respect for all religions.
Speaking to reporters on Tursday, MP Barq said that leaders holding high constitutional positions—such as the President, Prime Minister and Chief Ministers—carry the responsibility of representing and respecting all communities. “India is a constitutional and democratic country, not a religious nation,” he asserted.
He added that those in power must ensure equal treatment for all faiths and avoid actions that may appear partisan or politically motivated.
MP Barq alleged that Prime Minister Modi was using religious symbolism for political gain.
According to him, “Religion may bring political benefits, but it cannot benefit the nation if it is used for political purposes.” He appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and aware of their constitutional rights, saying that a country becomes strong only when its leadership embraces every religion and community.
“Religion is important for everyone, but a Prime Minister’s responsibility is towards the entire nation. Respecting all communities is essential,” he said.
“Politics should not be played in the name of religious sites” The SP MP emphasised that religious places should not be used for political messaging. “A Prime Minister must rise above religious identity. Politics should not be played in the name of religious sites,” he remarked.
The Ram Temple’s pran pratishta (consecration ceremony) was held on 22 January 2024, after which the shrine was opened to the public. At the time, construction work was still ongoing. The temple has now been fully completed, and the latest ceremony involved the formal hoisting of the religious flag, triggering the present controversy.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders have said that the ceremony reflects the sentiments of millions of devotees, while opposition parties argue that constitutional boundaries must be maintained.
