MADURAI
Condoling the death of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council (TNBC) has hailed him as a leader who stood firm in protecting the rights and individuality of religious minorities.
In a statement released by the Most Rev Antony Pappusamy, the president of TNBC, the council has said that despite openly identifying himself as an atheist and rationalist, Karunanidhi has never insulted any religion.
Stating that the departed leader was a democrat and a champion of secularism, the council said that though he had to compromise due to party politics on some occasions, he demonstrated resolve in holding on to his principles.
Following the footsteps of ‘Periyar’ E.V. Ramasamy, Karunanidhi fought against the social evils, superstitions, and casteism, the council said.
Lauding Karunanidhi as an ideologue and a one-man movement identified with the values of equality, self-respect and justice, the council said that Tamil Nadu would always be indebted to him for the dedication with which he worked for the people.
The council said that it would always extend its friendship with the bereaved family of the late leader and crores of his followers. Along with the council, the Christian fraternity also joins in expressing deep condolences, the statement said.
