Row over Bharat Mata image, Kerala govt moves event out of Raj Bhavan
Kerala’s World Environment Day celebration faced a political controversy when the state government objected to a Bharat Mata image displayed at the Raj Bhavan. This dispute led to the relocation of the event from the Governor’s residence to the state Secretariat.
The Event Sparks Controversy
The Agriculture Department had planned the Environment Day event on June 5 at Raj Bhavan, with Governor Arif Mohammad Khan as the chief guest. However, officials noticed the portrait of Bharat Mata used in the venue’s decoration closely resembled an image associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). This particular version showed Bharat Mata holding a saffron flag and standing next to a stylized map of India.
The state government viewed the image as politically charged. They believed it did not represent the nation in a neutral manner. Instead, they considered it a symbol tied to a specific ideology, which should not appear at a constitutional venue.
Minister P. Prasad Objects
Agriculture Minister P. Prasad spoke out against the use of the image. After consulting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Prasad announced that the government would boycott the event at Raj Bhavan. He explained that while the concept of Bharat Mata is respected, the specific depiction linked to RSS shakhas was inappropriate for an official function.
“This is not a representation that reflects India’s diversity or constitutional values,” he said. The government then decided to shift the Environment Day celebrations to the Durbar Hall in the state Secretariat.
Governor Stands Firm
Governor Arif Mohammad Khan defended the decision to keep the Bharat Mata portrait at Raj Bhavan. He stated, “Bharat Mata is a symbol of our national pride and identity. We cannot remove her image from official functions.”
He added that objections to such symbols often come from those uncomfortable with the idea of national unity. This event is not the first time the Governor and the state government have clashed. Previous disputes have involved university appointments and administrative issues.
Political Responses
The controversy quickly attracted political reactions. Opposition leader V.D. Satheesan criticized both the Governor and the government. He said, “The Raj Bhavan should not become a platform for any ideological agenda. Symbols like Bharat Mata, especially the RSS-linked version, should not appear in state functions.”
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) strongly supported the Governor’s stance. BJP state president K. Surendran called the government’s opposition “anti-national.” He argued that Bharat Mata represents patriotism and cultural unity, and should not be rejected by elected representatives.
Broader Questions on Symbolism
This incident highlights an ongoing debate about using symbols in government events. Many Indians see Bharat Mata as a symbol of patriotism. However, the specific version at Raj Bhavan is closely connected with Hindutva ideology and the RSS.
In a secular democracy, state functions must represent all citizens, regardless of religion or political belief. Since the Constitution does not officially endorse any national personification like Bharat Mata, the choice to display such images can cause controversy.
For a diverse country like India, using religious or political symbols in official spaces requires careful consideration. The Kerala government’s move reflects an attempt to keep public institutions secular. On the other hand, the Governor’s view treats the image as a non-political emblem of national pride.
Strained Relations Between State and Governor
The dispute adds to the ongoing tension between Kerala’s Left-led government and the Governor’s office. These tensions have persisted for years, involving conflicts over administrative decisions and policies.
The Kerala government has repeatedly defended its authority in managing state affairs, while the Governor’s office has accused it of overstepping limits. This controversy underscores the complex power dynamics in India’s federal system.
Conclusion
Though this controversy centers on a portrait, it reflects larger ideological divides in Indian politics. Patriotism and national identity remain powerful themes, but their meanings differ across political groups.
Kerala’s decision to move the Environment Day event signals the government’s commitment to secular and inclusive governance. Meanwhile, the Governor’s insistence on the Bharat Mata image highlights a contrasting viewpoint.
This episode may prompt broader discussions about the role of symbols in official functions. It also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between state governments and constitutional authorities in India’s democracy.
