In a recent turn of events, the announcement of the prestigious Gandhi Peace Prize being awarded to Gita Press has sparked controversy, leading to a heated exchange between political parties. The decision by the jury to honor the renowned Hindu publishing house with the esteemed award has drawn criticism from the Congress party, labeling it a “travesty.” Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has come forward to defend the decision.
The Gandhi Peace Prize, named after Mahatma Gandhi, is an annual award presented by the Government of India to individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to promoting peace, harmony, and non-violence. Gita Press, founded in 1923, is renowned for publishing and promoting Hindu religious texts, including the Bhagavad Gita and Ramayana.
The Congress party has voiced its discontent with the decision, claiming that it goes against the principles and beliefs of Mahatma Gandhi. They argue that conferring the Gandhi Peace Prize on an organization associated primarily with a religious text undermines the secular fabric of India. The Congress spokesperson stated that the award should have been given to individuals or organizations working for communal harmony and social justice.
In response, the BJP has defended the selection of Gita Press, emphasizing its significant contributions to society. They argue that the organization has played a vital role in promoting spiritual and moral values, which align with Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and peace. The BJP accuses the Congress of politicizing the award and attempting to create unnecessary divisions on religious lines.
Supporters of Gita Press argue that the organization has worked tirelessly to disseminate the teachings of Hindu philosophy and culture, contributing to the moral and spiritual development of millions of people. They argue that recognizing Gita Press for the Gandhi Peace Prize is an acknowledgment of its efforts to promote peace and non-violence through religious teachings.
The controversy surrounding the award highlights the ongoing debate about the intersection of religion and secularism in India. Critics argue that the decision sets a precedent that could lead to the politicization of future awards, while supporters maintain that it is a well-deserved recognition for an organization that has made significant contributions to society.
The Ministry of Culture, responsible for selecting the recipients of the Gandhi Peace Prize, has not yet responded to the criticism. However, it is expected that they will release a statement addressing the concerns raised by the Congress party.
As the controversy deepens, it remains to be seen whether the decision to award the Gandhi Peace Prize to Gita Press will be reconsidered or upheld. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in striking a balance between religious beliefs and the principles of secularism in a diverse country like India.
Controversy Erupts Over Gandhi Peace Prize for Gita Press, Congress Criticizes Decision While BJP Responds
