Is Flag Hoisting at Mosques Now Mandatory in Chhattisgarh?
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Synopsis
The Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board has issued a unique directive requiring the national flag to be hoisted at mosques, madrasas, and dargahs on Independence Day. This move aims to promote patriotism and unity amidst political controversy, raising questions about its necessity and implications.
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory flag hoisting at mosques, madrasas, and dargahs on Independence Day.
- The initiative aims to promote communal harmony and patriotism.
- Photos and videos of the flag-hoisting must be submitted by mosque committees.
- Political controversy surrounds the directive, with differing opinions.
- The move arrives just before the 79th Independence Day.
Raipur, Aug 12 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking directive, the Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board has mandated the hoisting of the national flag at the principal entrances of all mosques, madrasas, and dargahs throughout the state on Independence Day. The circular, released on Monday by Waqf Board Chairman Dr. Salim Raj, instructs mutawallis (caretakers of Waqf properties) to ensure that the Tricolour is unfurled in the company of imams and mosque committee members on August 15.
The Board’s correspondence highlights that the national flag is “a symbol of honour and pride” and is not associated with any specific religion.
“Independence Day is a national festival, not a religious observance,” he further noted, adding that the directive was issued following some objections regarding flag hoisting at religious locations.
“Due to the actions of a few fundamentalists, the entire Muslim community is viewed with suspicion. This initiative aims to alter that narrative,” he explained.
To guarantee adherence, the Waqf Board has mandated mosque committees to send photographs or video recordings of the flag-hoisting events through a dedicated online portal or WhatsApp group within thirty minutes of the ceremony.
This initiative is designed to promote patriotism and communal harmony, especially in the wake of recent events that have negatively impacted the public perception of the Muslim community.
Nonetheless, the directive has ignited political controversy. Deepak Baij, president of the Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress Committee, criticized the initiative, claiming that the BJP is exploiting the flag-hoisting issue for political gain.
“The BJP is attempting to polarize sentiments by transforming a routine patriotic act into a spectacle. The Muslim community has always commemorated Independence Day with pride. There was no need for such a directive unless the goal was to create division and garner media attention,” Baij stated.
While numerous Muslim scholars have embraced the initiative as a reaffirmation of national unity, others have questioned the necessity of formalizing a practice that is already widely observed.
This directive arrives just ahead of the 79th Independence Day and is perceived as both a symbolic and strategic gesture in a politically sensitive environment.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this directive with an understanding of its potential to enhance communal harmony while also acknowledging the diverse perspectives it may evoke. The Waqf Board's initiative could serve as a beacon of unity in a politically charged environment, emphasizing the importance of national pride across all communities.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new directive from the Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board?
The Waqf Board has mandated the hoisting of the national flag at mosques, madrasas, and dargahs on Independence Day.
Who is responsible for ensuring the flag is hoisted?
The caretakers of Waqf properties, known as mutawallis, are tasked with ensuring the flag is unfurled in the presence of imams and mosque committee members.
What is the purpose of this directive?
The directive aims to promote patriotism and communal harmony, especially in light of recent incidents affecting the public perception of the Muslim community.
Has there been any political reaction to this directive?
Yes, it has sparked controversy, with some political figures alleging that it is being used for political propaganda.
What do Muslim scholars think about this initiative?
While some scholars welcome the move as a reaffirmation of national unity, others question the need for formalizing a practice that is already commonly observed.
