Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE), Ramesh, has defended the government’s proposal to build an exclusive mandapam (resting hall) at the Sri Mariamman Temple in Anbil for devotees who have recovered from chickenpox. The Minister accused the DMK of spreading false propaganda to demean the government.
According to Mr. Ramesh, the proposed mandapam is intended for devotees who visit the temple after recovering from chickenpox, as many of them wish to stay at the temple to fulfill their vows to the goddess Mariamman. The temple attracts a large number of devotees from across the state, and the government decided to construct the mandapam after receiving several petitions from devotees and considering the rising number of visitors.
The Minister stated that the DMK launched a false propaganda campaign online, claiming that the mandapam would spread the disease by congregating those with chickenpox. However, Mr. Ramesh emphasized that the mandapam is for those who have already recovered from the disease. He also criticized the DMK for their disruptive approach in the Assembly, causing ruckus and not adhering to the dignity of the House.
Mr. Ramesh also addressed criticism from the Opposition that Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay did not answer questions directed at him. The Minister explained that other Ministers actively respond to questions directed at the Chief Minister, as they are also part of the government.
In a separate matter, Mr. Ramesh accused former Minister P.K. Sekarbabu of misusing his influence to collect inputs from the HR&CE Department to protect himself from wrongdoing. He warned that no officials who pass on inside information from the department would be spared, and severe action would be taken against them.
