Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan has chose to adopt an apolitical stand, steering clear of any controversy in respect of the relations with the BJP government at the Centre.
At a press conference at Cherthala on Saturday, he said: “We are not spokespersons of any political party.”
Mr. Natesan said the Yogam had members belonging to various political parties. It was an independent body free to express its opinions on political matters. The Yogam had fought for social justice, more than anything else, he said.
He said he did not feel insulted in not being invited for a meeting with BJP president Amit Shah, now on a visit to Kerala. Those who wanted to meet him had done so, he said, referring to the Bharat Dharma Jana Sena (BDJS), without mentioning the name. He had nothing special to talk to the BJP leader.
The promises made by the BJP to the Yogam were yet to be fulfilled. It was agreed that the Central University of Kerala would be renamed after Sree Narayana Guru a year ago when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kollam. He blamed the State leadership of the BJP for the lapse.
On the newly introduced restrictions on the sale of cattle, he said there was confusion over the issue. The rules were already in force. Slaughter of animals should be done in a healthy manner. Restrictions were inherent in every kind of freedom, he said adding that there were certain lapses in the new rule.
Asked about the latest developments in the sale of liquor, he said the reopening of closed toddy shops and bars was a good move. Hundreds of people depended on them for livelihood, he pointed out.
On the issue of forced religious conversions, he said it was a fact that a number of conversions were taking place and laws were required to put a stop to them. The Yogam was engaged in spreading awareness among its members on the treacherous practice.
The SNDP Trust elections held recently had proved that those who opposed him had an insignificant support base. Of the 1,600-odd votes, his opponents could get less than 50 votes. United work was needed for the prosperity of the community. Medical colleges and educational institutions had to be upgraded, he added.
