Is S.T. Hasan's Comment on Cloudburst Thoughtless?
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Synopsis
In a heated response, Congress leaders criticize S.T. Hasan's recent comments linking the Uttarkashi cloudburst to religious intolerance. They emphasize the need for a scientific perspective on natural disasters and condemn the propagation of superstition. This controversy highlights the delicate balance between faith and reason in public discourse.
Key Takeaways
- S.T. Hasan's comments were labeled as thoughtless.
- Congress emphasizes a scientific approach to disasters.
- The need for respect among religions is paramount.
- Superstitions should not overshadow facts.
- Environmental issues play a crucial role in natural disasters.
New Delhi, Aug 9 (NationPress) The Congress party has taken a strong stance against Samajwadi Party leader S.T. Hasan for his contentious comments regarding the Uttarkashi cloudburst. They have labelled his remarks as "very thoughtless" and based more on superstition than on scientific facts.
In response to Hasan’s statements, senior Congress figure and former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Harish Rawat, expressed through IANS, “This is a very thoughtless comment, whoever made it. Such remarks should not come from a former Member of Parliament. We are people who respect all religions. Our land honours everyone. The people here live with love and harmony. It is only some forces of hatred that have emerged across the country.”
Congress leader Udit Raj shared similar views, criticising the religious implications of Hasan’s remarks.
He stated, “We should not believe in superstitions. These are all superstitious notions that ruin the country. This is the scientific age, and every incident has scientific and natural causes.”
Raj added, “If everything happened according to religion, then why are wars still taking place? Why hasn’t God ended global conflict, hunger, theft, or rape? Why does inequality still exist between the rich and the poor? What ST Hasan is saying is nonsense. Let him say what he wants—people know better.”
The backlash follows ST Hasan's controversial linkage of the natural disaster in Uttarakhand to supposed religious intolerance.
Earlier in an interview with IANS, Hasan remarked, “We don’t know how many people are still trapped under the debris. It’s truly a heart-wrenching incident. A whole village has been washed away. Earlier, it didn’t rain like this. Why are such tragedies happening? We need to reflect. We’ve cut down too many trees.”
He further asserted, “In Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, other religions are not being respected. There is someone who governs this world, and when divine justice happens, no one can protect themselves. Bulldozers should not be used on any dargahs or temples. It’s better to evacuate such places peacefully.”
Congress leaders have called for a more sensitive and scientifically informed approach when addressing such calamities.
Point of View
The Congress party's response to S.T. Hasan's comments reflects a broader concern about maintaining a rational discourse in the face of natural disasters. It underscores the importance of relying on scientific understanding rather than superstitious beliefs, especially in a country where diverse faiths coexist. As we navigate these challenging times, a commitment to factual discourse is imperative.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What comments did S.T. Hasan make regarding the Uttarkashi cloudburst?
S.T. Hasan controversially linked the Uttarkashi cloudburst to alleged religious intolerance, suggesting that divine justice is at play.
How did Congress leaders respond to Hasan's remarks?
Congress leaders criticized Hasan's comments as 'very thoughtless' and emphasized the importance of a scientific perspective on natural disasters.
What is the significance of the cloudburst incident in Uttarkashi?
The cloudburst in Uttarkashi has resulted in significant destruction, prompting discussions around environmental issues and the need for immediate responses.
What do Congress leaders advocate for in response to natural disasters?
They advocate for sensitivity, respect for all religions, and a scientific approach to understanding the causes of such tragedies.
What broader issues are raised by this controversy?
This controversy raises questions about the role of superstition in public discourse and the need for rational discussions on disaster management.
