Synopsis
Hindu organizations in Karnataka have voiced their disapproval of a proposed one-hour duty exemption for Muslim government employees during Ramzan. This request follows similar allowances made by neighboring states. The Karnataka government is yet to make a decision on the matter, amid concerns over equal treatment among religious groups.Key Takeaways
- Hindu groups oppose the one-hour exemption for Muslim staff.
- The Karnataka government is still considering the request.
- Concerns over equal treatment among different religions were raised.
- Similar exemptions were granted in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
- Congress leaders argue it would be a considerate gesture.
Bengaluru, Feb 21 (NationPress) Hindu organizations in Karnataka have expressed their disapproval regarding the proposal to grant a one-hour duty exemption for government employees of the Muslim faith during the holy month of Ramzan.
The Vice Presidents of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), M.R.M. Hussain and Syed Ahmad, have recently penned a letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging him to permit Muslim employees to leave work early for prayers and to break their fast.
The Karnataka government is still evaluating this request.
This demand emerged following similar measures taken by the neighboring states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, which have allowed Muslim employees to leave work early during Ramzan.
Pramod Muthalik, the leader of Sri Rama Sena, voiced strong opposition to the request last Friday, stating, "The Constitution, authored by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, provides equal freedom for all religions. India is a secular country. However, creating special provisions for government employees of a specific religion is inappropriate and should be condemned. It would be wrong for the Karnataka government to approve this request.
“Will the government also consider such special arrangements when Hindus fast during Shivratri, Ekadashi, and other significant festivals?
“Today, they are seeking a one-hour exemption during Ramzan; tomorrow, they may ask for exemptions every Friday for prayers.
“These demands should not be accommodated by the government. If permitted, it could lead to protests from the Hindu community,” Muthalik cautioned.
He emphasized that if the Hindu community were to start demanding exemptions during their religious celebrations, government offices could become understaffed, as Hindus observe many festivals.
Importantly, the Karnataka government, under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has not yet reached a conclusion regarding this issue.
In their correspondence to CM Siddaramaiah, the Congress leaders remarked, “As Ramzan approaches, the governments of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have allowed Muslim employees to leave work early, considering their fasting. We urge you to implement a similar exemption in Karnataka.”
M.R.M. Hussain further emphasized that permitting Muslim employees to leave work early during Ramzan would be a thoughtful act devoid of any ulterior motives.
“If granted, it will convey a positive message, but if it is not, there is no problem. The ultimate decision lies with the Chief Minister, and this issue should not escalate into controversy,” he stated.
He also questioned why the BJP, which is anticipated to oppose the move, has remained silent on the NDA-led Andhra Pradesh government's decision to allow Muslim employees early leave.
