The move sparks debate on secularism and minority rights in Madhya Pradesh; Congress criticises government
BHOPAL/NEW DELHI — A video circulating online showing trainee constables in Madhya Pradesh reciting Bhagavad Gita verses has sparked widespread outrage and political controversy. The practice, carried out every evening during the Hindu month of Margashirsha, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties and civil society voices advocating for religious neutrality in public institutions.
Around 4,000 newly recruited constables across eight training centres in the state are reportedly taking part in this exercise. Clad in their blue uniforms, trainees are seen reading the Gita in unison, prompting questions about the appropriateness of religious activities in a government training programme.
The Additional Director of Police, Raja Babu Singh, defended the initiative, stating: “This exercise is aimed at encouraging police personnel to lead disciplined and balanced lives. Reciting verses from the Bhagavad Gita helps maintain mental and emotional stability during their training.” He added that the practice was initiated at the start of Margashirsha, a month considered sacred in Hindu tradition.
However, the Congress party has raised strong objections. “The government’s decision to introduce religious practices in police training is deeply concerning,” said party spokesperson Bhupendra Gupta. “India guarantees freedom of religion, and state institutions must remain secular. Forcing Hindu scriptures on police trainees undermines the Constitution and alienates minority communities,” he said.
The controversy is compounded by past incidents. Just four months ago, police trainees were reportedly asked to recite verses from the Ramcharitmanas, with authorities claiming the exercise instilled discipline and moral values. Critics argue that repeating religious rituals, particularly those of the majority community, risks marginalising minorities, including Muslims, and creating an environment of exclusion in government institutions.
Local Muslim leaders have voiced their concern, highlighting the subtle pressures faced by minority recruits. Imran Qureshi, a community activist from Bhopal, stated: “When young Muslims join public service, they should not be compelled to follow rituals of another faith. Such practices send a message that our beliefs are secondary in the eyes of the state.”
Legal experts also weighed in, noting potential conflicts with constitutional principles. “State-run institutions must maintain neutrality,” explained Dr Ayesha Siddiqui, a constitutional law scholar. “Mandating participation in religious practices, even under the guise of discipline, risks breaching the secular ethos guaranteed to every citizen, regardless of faith.”
The Madhya Pradesh government, meanwhile, insists that the recitations are a longstanding tradition meant to promote character building. Yet, critics argue that the repetitive focus on Hindu texts in a diverse state could be seen as systematic marginalisation of minorities.
Civil society organisations have called for an immediate review of such practices. Farah Khan, a human rights activist, emphasised: “Training centres must respect the pluralistic nature of India. No officer should feel coerced into participating in religious exercises that conflict with their personal beliefs.”
As the debate intensifies, the incident has become a focal point of discussions about secularism, minority rights, and the role of religion in state-run institutions. Muslims and other minority communities continue to urge authorities to uphold constitutional principles and ensure that public service remains inclusive for all.
