The Madhya Pradesh government’s plan to teach “Gita Sar” (essence of Bhagwad Gita) in government schools has been sharply criticised and dubbed an anti-secular initiative by Harmony Foundation, a local organisation formed by followers of various religious groups.
Addressing a press conference here on Tuesday, the head of Harmony Foundation L.S. Hardenia said under the Constitution, no religion could get precedence or priority vis-à-vis other religions. If the Madhya Pradesh government is determined to teach the essence of Gita in schools from the coming academic session, it would simultaneously have to make sure that the gist of other religions also forms part of the school curriculum.
He said the MP government is acting against the letter and spirit of the Constitution. He went on to observe that the BJP-led state government has failed to project a secular image since it is being guided by the RSS. Taking a dig at the state government, he said under the present rule, various government schemes have been named drawing inspiration from Hindu mythology and pantheon of gods and goddesses.
He cited the example of the Ladli Laxmi Yojna, Balram Talab Yojna, Jal Abhishek programme, to drive home his point.
Mr Hardenia said that the opposition to the state government’s latest plan to teach the essence of Gita in government schools has received support from community leaders representing different religious groups.