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SYNOPSIS OF DEBATES (Proceedings other than Questions & Answers) ______

Tuesday, December 1, 2015 / Agrahayana 10, 1937 (Saka) ______

*MATTERS UNDER RULE 377

(i) SHRI laid a statement regarding

need to rename Taj Express Train (Agra-Jhansi) as Laxmi Bai Express.

(ii) SHRI SUNIL KUMAR SINGH laid a statement regarding need to take

necessary steps to start work on construction of Barwadih-Chirimiri

railway line project.

(iii) SHRIMATI RAKSHATAI KHADSE laid a statement regarding need

to frame new guidelines for recruitment to regular D category Vacancies

in Government, Semi-Government and Public Sector Undertakings.

(iv) SHRI CHHEDI PASWAN laid a statement regarding need to provide a

rake point for transportation of fertilizers at Bhabuha road railway station

in Kaimur district, Bihar.

* Laid on the Table as directed by the Speaker. (v) SHRI BHAIRON PRASAD MISHRA laid a statement regarding need

to provide full payment of relief funds to farmers in Banda and

Chitrakoot districts of .

(vi) SHRI laid a statement regarding

need to release balance funds for development of Urban Infrastructure

and Governance under Jawahar Lal Nehru National Urban Renewal

Mission in Jaipur and Ajmer, .

(vii) SHRI laid a statement regarding need to provide

adequate irrigation facilities and seeds to farmers in Eastern Uttar

Pradesh particularly in Sant Kabir Nagar Parliamentary Constituency in

the State.

(viii) SHRIMATI RITI PATHAK laid a statement regarding need to

expedite construction of Lalitpur-Singrauli railway line.

(ix) SHRI VISHNU DAYAL RAM laid a statement regarding need to

provide financial assistance and put a moratorium on payment of loan by

farmers in drought hit states particularly Jharkhand.

(x) SHRI SUKHBIR SINGH JAUNAPURIA laid a statement regarding

need to expedite construction of service road on National Highway-8

from Kherki Daula to Manesar in Gurgaon, Haryana and also provide

separate road on N.H. 8 between and Jaipur for heavy vehicles. (xi) SHRI NANA PATOLE laid a statement regarding need to implement

the recommendations of Swaminathan Committee report and constitute a

Agriculture Commission to enable farmers to register their agriculture

related grievances.

(xii) SHRI laid a statement regarding need to appoint a

Member in Bhakra Beas Management Board from Rajasthan.

(xiii) SHRI NISHIKANT DUBEY laid a statement regarding need to include

the naxal affected Dumka, Godda, Deoghar, Jamtara, Pakur and

Sahibganj districts of Jharkhand in the Integrated Action Plan.

(xiv) SHRI RAVINDRA KUMAR PANDEY laid a statement regarding need

to post adequate para-military force to tackle the menace of naxalism in

Bokaro district, Jharkhand.

(xv) SHRI D.K. SURESH laid a statement regarding need to increase the

honorarium and Salary of mid-day meal workers as per minimum wage

regulations.

(xvi) SHRI ANTO ANTONY laid a statement regarding need to appoint a full

time Chairman of Rubber Board and also promote the cultivation and

production of natural rubber in the country.

(xvii) SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN laid a statement

regarding need to expedite the repair/re-carpeting of runway of Calicut International Airport and restore the Calicut-Delhi flight service of Air

India.

(xviii) SHRI P. R. SUNDARAM laid a statement regarding need to constitute

a Tapioca Board with its headquarters at Salem, Tamil Nadu.

(xix) DR. K. KAMARAJ laid a statement regarding need to provide financial

assistance to the people affected due to heavy rain in Tamil Nadu.

(xx) DR. RATNA (NAG) DE laid a statement regarding need to provide

toilet and drinking water facilities on National Highways in the country.

(xxi) SHRI RABINDRA KUMAR JENA laid a statement regarding need to

construct mega drinking water projects under the National Rural

Drinking Water Programme in Odisha.

(xxii) SHRI SHRIRANG APPA BARNE laid a statement regarding need to

accord heritage status to the building of Central Railway Institute in

Lonavala, Maharashtra and also set up a world class railway Museum in

the premises of the building.

(xxiii) SHRI KESINENI SRINIVAS laid a statement regarding need to

provide financial assistance to farmers in drought hit districts of Andhra

Pradesh. (xxiv) SHRI RADHESHYAM BISWAS laid a statement regarding need to

revitalize the flagging Cachar Paper Mill, a unit of Hindustan Paper

Corporation Limited at Panchgram, Assam.

(xxv) KUNWAR HARIBANSH SINGH laid a statement regarding need to

formulate a drinking water project to provide clean drinking water to

people of Pratapgarh Parliamentary Constituency, Uttar Pradesh.

DISCUSSION UNDER RULE 193

Re: Situation arising out of incidents of intolerance in the country - Contd.

SHRI P. KUMAR: is a large, heterogeneous and diverse country and also the largest democracy in the history of the world. A large number of social groups live in this country. Their emotions and sentiments and sense of oneness with the idea of India need to be preserved and carefully nurtured. There has to be maturity and sensitivity that has to be displayed by everyone. There are times when this sense of balance and maturity appears to get somewhat skewed, leading to a sense of outrage from other sections of society. Hence, maturity and restraint on all sides is something which is very essential to restore the sense of balance which is very essential in publicly asserting and voicing various views and opinions. Whatever may be the provocation that is offered, resort to violence can never be condoned. it is the duty of the State to curb and put down violence firmly. The state machinery has to be geared up for this purpose. What is more worrying is that such incidents may puncture India's secular fabric. It is more hurting to learn that this may have serious impacts on economic development of our country. India needs to find its own path in ensuring that all social groups in the country continue to live in harmony. I am very happy to say that Tamil Nadu is a State known for keeping up communal harmony. Before concluding, I would like to add that it is apt to say that Tamil Nadu is certainly a role model for other

States to emulate and follow especially in maintaining communal and religious harmony. I would like the Government to re-assure the House and the country, by condemning such killings, recognizing the principle of 'Unity in Diversity', and stating that they stand by the Constitution of India.

SHRI GAJANAN KIRTIKAR: There is a need to take concrete measures after giving a very serious thought to putting an end to intolerance is even more important than merely holding discussion on this issue. There has to be a display of maturity and sensitivity by everyone in public space be it journalists, litterateur, film actors, political leaders and social activists. The people who make inflammatory speeches should be made to show restraint while speaking. I request that there is a need to keep a close watch and take stringent action against such persons. Presently, certain anti-national forces are trying to create communal discord in the country by causing dissonance in the minds of people in search of political gains. I would like to request the Government that stringent action should be taken to curb these kinds of incidents.

SHRI JAYADEV GALLA: Throughout the ages, large groups of people have come to India but no group has ever left India en masse due to the religious persecution in the history of our country. India has been known for its tolerance for ages. Our forefathers realized that unless we unite as Indians first, we cannot succeed. We have to preserve this at any cost. Due to political greed, an attempt to divide this country is once again being pursued. Unscrupulous elements are misusing the words like 'secularism' and 'intolerance' to further divide the country.

They are playing caste politics and exploiting minorities to make them into vote banks; this must be stopped. Intolerance between Muslims and Jews, between

Shias and Sunnis, is what continues to fuel the wars that we see in the Middle East.

It is high time for the world to realize that all terrorists are the same. Islam has 72 sects and India is the only country in the world where you have all the 72 sects present. We have been the home for persecuted communities like Judaism,

Zoroastrianism, Islam, Tibetan, Buddhists, early Christianity and so on.

Contradictions or differences are not new to India but have existed throughout her medieval and modern periods. But the problem arises only when someone' switches-on' the debate on growing intolerance during a 'particular period' with malicious intentions to achieve some political objectives and then 'switches-off' when that 'particular period' is over and the objectives are achieved. How can the

NDA Government be responsible for the recent violent incidents. Law and order is the State subjects. Incompetence of States Governments cannot be construed as the failure of the hon. Prime Minister nor the hon. Home Minister. Austrian-

British philosopher, Sir Raimond Popper said: 'Essentially one who raises his voice against intolerance is being intolerant of the rival opinions.' We need to be intolerant about corruption, exploiting poor, weak and marginalized; forces or induced religious conversion; terrorism; sexual harassment and abuse of women and children; prejudice; inequality of opportunities; leaving farmers stranded in a debt trap; police brutality; dowry harassment; caste conflicts; obstructing development and discrimination by religion, caste, creed, region, colour and language.

SHRI A.P. JITHENDER REDDY: It has been one and a-half year since

Telangana came into being. There exists 'Ganga Jamuni Tehzeeb' in our state.

There is no Diwali if 'Ali' does not come, similarly, if ' Ram' does not come there is no Ramzan. We celebrate Diwali and Ramzan with equal gusto. Since ours is a new state it needs to be given assistance. Our state was ruled for 60 years by others due to which we are facing water and employment crisis. Our treasury is empty. Implement the provisions of Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act such as bifurcation of High Court, Pranahita Chevella, special project and funds for AIIMS. 231 mandals are in the grip of drought. For this we have sought an immediate relief of Rs.500 crores. Cotton farmers are agitating. They are not getting adequate MSP for their produce. We are not waiting for anybody to come and help us. We have said we will build our own State. Regarding drinking water, we have already asked the Panchayati Raj Minister to provide us funds but till date nothing has been given. Already a Watergrid programme has been taken up. We have already started our Kakatiya Mission and we are restoring all the lakes and ponds. I request the Government to provide to us whatever has been promised in the Act and whatever is required for Telangana.

SHRI VARAPRASAD RAO VELAGAPALLI: India is known for its secularity and democracy all over the world. India has already more than hundred crore of Hindus who are extremely poor and thousands of temples are in a very dilapidated condition where poojas and archnas are not being done. If they are really interested in the Hindu religion and want to protect it, instead of getting into this kind of controversy they may focus on the renovation of temples and revival of poojas and archnas in temples. No Government, however majority it has, presuming that it has 545 seats, has the right to tinker with the basic structure of the Constitution. The incidents of killing of the rationalists Kalburgi and Govind

Ansari are unfortunate and highly condemnable. People in a democratic country have different ways of expressing their anguish because we have lot of freedom. It is not that anybody has given us this freedom; it is enshrined in the Constitution. It is unprecedented that more than 45 Sahitya Academy awardees and Padamshree awardees have returned their awards. The Government should not humiliate them by saying that those people are trying to pay their own patronage. So, instead of burying that 50 people have returned their awards, still criticizing them is very unfortunate. Again, the political intolerance and statements that several MPs and

Ministers are making are not required and is not a healthy trend in a democratic country, which could be avoided. Therefore, to make the present democracy a more secular country, the Government could say and advise their party leaders, party functionaries and the Ministers not to give any provocative statements.

DR. SUBHASH RAMRAO BHAMRE: I feel that India is not any intolerant nation. I think that this is merely the propaganda by some sections of media. The average Indian is neither very tolerant nor intolerant but mostly indifferent to the matters of caste or community, unless of course it impacts his immediate or everyday life. It appears that there has not been any spurt in these incidents in the recent past and the position has nearly the same or more under the

UPA rule. Why are we in India so embarrassed to recognise our own strength, our achievement. We are such a great nation. We have so many amazing success stories but we refuse to acknowledge them. When it comes to negative propaganda against India in the world our media tops the list. This is manufactured dissent. And all the people who have vested interests are trying to derail Mr. Modi's agenda for development.

SHRI P.C. MOHAN: This subject of intolerance is not at all a new incident in this country. There were so many such incidents happened in this country. It was during the Congress Rule that thousands of Sikhs were butchered and thousands of

Kashmiri Pandits were driven out their homes leaving all their land and wealth. It was during the Emergency the State sponsored acts of intolerance reached its peak.

Lakhs of citizens who agitated against the Black rules were put behind bars and tortured many Members of Parliament and leaders were arrested under MISA and released only after one and half years of torture. Now even small incidents here and there are being highlighted to show the Modi led NDA Government in poor light to put hazards in the steps of development. All these have happened because of the mishandling of the law and order situation by the concerned State

Governments tarnishing the image of this country before the world. The present

Central Government led by Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji is striving to put the country on the path of development and to bring back its glorious image before the world. It should be the earnest effort of the

Parliamentarians to give his support to his efforts.

SHRI : It is our responsibility to establish mutual trust in society. All the representatives should take active participation in all the activities of their constituency. They should play a more active role in development as well as in maintaining law and order in their area.

SHRI RAJEEV SATAV: Intolerance is rising in the country and meaningful dialogue is coming to a naught. Several writers, filmmakers and intellectuals have returned their national awards. There is deep concern in the country and India's image is getting tarnished the world over. The Government of

India should take effective steps and take action against the guilty persons.

SHRI Y. V. SUBBA REDDY: The caste intolerance, the gender intolerance, the language intolerance etc have not come down. Elections are fought on caste and religious basis. India is a pluralistic, multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and multi-cultural country. We have no choice except living together in harmony.

Irrelevant issues like beef should be out of national discourse. There should be no scope for any intolerance.

SHRI C.R. CHAUDHARY: "Toleration" is our basic value and part of our vedic culture. Our culture is such expansive in nature that no case of intolerance can thrive in this country. There have been many attacks on our tolerance value system in the past. During Mogul rule , the Hindus suffered a lot, the British Government also played politics with our values of toleration. And now some segment of society still persists with same design by painting the popular government of the day as intolerant. This design will be defeated by the same people who voted the BJP led NDA into power. Our Hon'ble PM calling his religion as "Country First" makes it very clear to all segments of society that there will be no discrimination on the basis of one's beliefs, practices and religion.

SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN: Unity in diversity is the hallmark of our great nation. This is Primarily due to the tolerance shown by the

Hindus. What happened to us now? Religious intolerance is a blot on the secular credentials and plurality of India. Our Prime Minister chose not to make any comment on these unfortunate incidents of religious intolerance. Intolerance is rising in society and it is an unhealthy development. We should all take a pledge that we will uphold the principles of secularism and democracy.

SHRI P.P. CHAUDHARY: The writers who are levelling charges of intolerance clearly belong to Leftist-Maoist ideology. This is a false propaganda that the writers who are returning the awards are liberal. Violence of all types should always be condemned but a public debate on rising intolerance in the country should be allowed to take place. In the end, I would like to state that the people of India are intelligent. I hope they would understand this malafied propaganda and the country will give them befitting reply.

SHRI BHANU PRATAP SINGH VERMA: Opposition is of the view that intolerance is on the rise in the country since the Modi Government has come to power. On the contrary, the country is progressing fast under the leadership of NDA Government but opposition is unable to digest this fact. Why centre is being cornered for rising intolerance in the country? Actually all this protest is being staged by those who were habitual of VIP culture while sitting on the key posts using public money but now they are in opposition and out of power. NDA

Government has put an end to this culture which has become a bone of contention.

That is why they are talking of intolerance.

SHRI : The day since NDA Government in the leadership of respected Prime Minister Shri has been formed, an artificial atmosphere of so called intolerance is being created. I would also like to tell the House that not a single incident of communal violence has occurred in the able leadership of honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Still if someone feels that intolerance is increasing in the country, it should be inquired into and action should be taken on it. But the fact is that the so called intolerance is false and foolish.

SHRIMATI SUPRIYA SULE: Every society in the world has tolerance and intolerance. I would definitely like to say that I represent and come from a

State which is suffering of intolerance. Why can we not co-exist together where we hear each other, it does not matter if one is right or wrong, whether we believe it or not. What happens in BCCI is totally condemnable. The other thing that happens is cancellation of music programme. I think music and languages have no culture; they bind the entire world together. After the cancellation, the hon. Chief

Minister had that opportunity, why did he not go ahead and attend the show to prove a point. When we are ordinary citizens, we can say whatever we want. But when we are elected representatives, there is a certain decorum in Parliament when we come here, especially when we are debating intolerance. This entire discussion is not whether beef is banned or who banned it or not. We are happy if you are making all our cities smart and if you are making India digital. But do the issues like beef ban and ghar wapasi really come in Digital India and modern India that you keep dreaming of? Another thing which is constantly coming up in various speeches is the death of various people, whether it is Shri Dhabolkar, Shri Pansare or Shri Kalburgi. I urge the hon. Home Minister to find out what is in the file of

Sanatan Sanstha. They keep threatening noble and modern people in Maharashtra.

Unfortunately no action so far has been taken. When the Gujarat riots happened, nothing was returned there because people were sure and confident that the man at the helm of affairs at the Centre was a liberal man. That is what India is looking for. If you are having these debates on Constitution, at least read it and follow it.

That is all our suggestion.

SHRIMATI BUTTA RENUKA: It is well known fact that India has a rich heritage and history and every Indian is really proud of this. Since time immemorial India has welcomed people from different parts of the world belonging to different religions, creeds, strata and languages who have made India their home and became an integral part of the Indian society. It is painful to hear some voices projecting India as an intolerant country. This I feel will severely affect our image and impact our economic development. Narrow partisan political gains should not compromise the idea of India. Instead we should give confidence to the people by addressing the concerns of the affected segments of the society.

Narrow minded attitude has to be given up. We need to strengthen the process of educating people to be tolerant of other beliefs. The need of the hour is to instill confidence to those segments of the society especially the minorities. The government can play a proactive role in this regard. I am sure this government will take measures to combat this evil and send strong message across the world that

India is a tolerant society.

SHRI DEVJI M. PATEL: Today especially media is spreading rumour in the country that intolerance has gain momentum with the Modi Government coming to power. I want to ask from those people who are returning awards whether there was no intolerance after the assassination of Smt. Indira Gandhi in

1984? Why did these Literary persons not return their awards at that time? Supar star of this country, Shahrukh Khan today say that intolerance is at its peak in this country. Another Supar star Amir Khan say that sense of insecurity has increased in the society. Our Constitution has given full religious freedom to every citizen. Wailings given by Dr. Ambedkar are still relevant today. All know that law and order is a state subject. In such a situation, how can anyone hold the Union

Government responsible for those incidents taking place in a particular state.

Certain anti-social elements of society want to disturb the mutual harmony present in our society so that the Union Government can be maligned. We will have to live in coherence and also we have to take care to maintain our cultural diversity.

Tolerance is our reverence to our Constitution and this should be given priority.

SHRI : The contribution of great men in our history has been immense. Earlier there were various evils prevailing our country.

Great men like Rai Saheb, Swami Dayananad Saraswati and Khushro eradicated those evils from time to time. During the freedom struggle nobody bothered if we were fighting for Hindu or Muslim, instead both Hindu and Muslim fought together in the freedom struggle. Today the incident of murder of children at

Faridabad is not an ordinary one. Government should give reply on this and it should have control over its ministers also as some of Union Ministers are trying to provoke the people of our country. When we are having discussion on intolerance then through you I would like to convey to the Government of our country that it is the responsibility of every citizen and especially the people sitting in august House have greater responsibilities in this regard. There are various challenges before our country and we want that there should be intolerance against poverty and employment. Moreover, authors and scientists are returning their awards and artists are having a feeling of insecurity. This is not a minor issue. Through you I would like to submit to this Government and the Home Minister that as our country is facing many challenges and is reeling under crisis, the Government should endeavour to combat it so that country can march ahead. If such statements come from the Ministers of the Union Government then the civilized society of the county will not tolerate it. His Excellency President of India has on several occasions expressed his serious concerns saying that the atmosphere of intolerance is rising in the country which ought to be controlled. Besides, many intellectuals, litterateurs, writers, scientists and artists have also stated many things. This was being stated that the issue of law and order is a subject of the State Government.

But if the ministers of Union Government go and spoil the law and order situation then atmosphere will become vicious.

KUMARI SHOBHA KARANDLAJE: Congress party's charge against the

BJP and the Centre of fomenting intolerance is a sinister design to divert the attention of the people of the country from the development-agenda. I also charge that it is the Congress that has exhibited its bitter intolerance in the history of

Independent India. Today the Congress party shouts its love and respect for Dr.

Babasaheb Ambedkar while it opposed Dr. Ambedkar in 1952 during general election. My direct charge is that Congress is a hypocritic party; it is a party of double-standards. In the year 1984, thousands of Sikh brethren were killed. It this is not intolerance, then what should we call it? Thousands of Kashmiri pundits were killed; driven out of their homes in the valley. Today Kashmiri pundits have become refugees in their own motherland. Where were these great sensitive and sensible Congress leaders when Kashmiri Pundits were being massacred? The

Congress has a vested interest in pursuing this non-existent issue of intolerance.

Intolerance is in the minds of the so-called intellectuals, pseudo-secular writers.

These pseudo-intellectuals and pseudo-secular writers have an ulterior motive to defame the BJP-led NDA Government. It is a shame on the 130-year old Congress to ride piggy back on these pseudo-secular intellectuals and writers for its political survival.

SHRIMATI APARUPA PODDAR: India is a country of unity in diversity, but the rise of intolerance is a cause of worry and a threat to India's Global Image.

Communal incidents in India are on the rise and loss of valuable human life is a great concern. The BJP Government has not yet taken any firm steps and the

Prime Minister has apparently remained silent on the issue. The Architect of

Constitution Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, born a Dalit, converted to Buddhism to escape caste-oppression in Hinduism. The irresponsible and controversial comments by

Union Minister's, BJP MPs and MLAs raised shock over Indian Nationals. RBI

Governor has warned the Government against Intolerance, warning that India's long-term economic prospects would be affected if the current situation prevails.

Nearly 200 Academics teaching in India and abroad have issued a joint statement against rising Intolerance. Our Leader and CM West Bengal Ms. Mamata

Banerjee has recently said "Tolerance is Life, Intolerance cannot be accepted as every Religion and Vedas has spoken about Tolerance. I request the Union

Government to treat all citizens of this country one and all, work for their development and welfare irrespective of whatever caste or religion they belong to.

SHRI PREM SINGH CHANDUMAJRA: This august House is holding a debate on the subject of intolerance. When the issue of intolerance is raised in a country like India then not only the country itself but the whole world is stunned because the culture, the conduct and the behaviour of the people of this country is full of tolerance. Those who talk about tolerance are becoming intolerant in this

House. Therefore, I say that such a debate was necessary as there is a feeling of fear among minorities and dalits and it should be debated. However, it does not at all mean that this kind of atmosphere has been generated today itself. Before that I would ask the members of Opposition to show some tolerance. I would like to cite 3-4 instances. When there was intolerance in the country then the nation was divided. When the states were carved out on the basis of linguistic criteria then no state was formed on the basis of Punjabi basis. When dalit Sikhs were not given reservation thinking that they will shed off their religion. What could be more intolerant and ill-intended policy then that. This is a democratic country and our courts take decisions. The then Prime Minister got furious when a court gave a verdict against her and she sought to punish the judges. The whole country was put behind the bars. This was the beginning of political intolerance. Several governments of opposition parties were dismissed despite them being in majority and this was another example of political intolerance. If we intend to take this country forward with tolerance then I would make three points. People should seek forgiveness and express their repentance for all the rights occurred so far.

The whole House should unanimously condemn the 1984 massacre of Sikhs. A code of conduct should be laid down so that such incidents do not recur in future.

KUMARI SUSHMITA DEV: No one can dispute that India is a tolerant country. India stands out as the largest secular democracy. Today, it is due to the tolerant nature of our nation that growing intolerance is being meted by non- violent protest. The idea of India is changing every day every moment, but let's change it for the better, progressive India rather than India that is regressive and oppressive.

SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN YADAV: We need to become tolerant and remain tolerant as this is our culture and civilization. The same amount of blood was shed by Muslim and Sikh brothers as much was shed by Hindus for

Independence of the country. Some leaders and the Minister of the Ruling Party have made highly objectionable statements. We should recall that Obama came to

India and he had alerted us that intolerance was rising in the country and politics was being pursued on the basis of religion. This is the need of the House that it should be checked.

SHRI P. KARUNAKARAN: Our nation has witnessed very serious and painful experiences of intolerance even in the time of freedom struggle. Intolerance is not confined in one aspect. But it has experience of various aspects of social life, it has its influence of political, religious, caste base, social and in other aspect.

Though we have sufficient lessons in the time of our freedom struggle and even afterwards, still we witnessed unexpected and unimaginable instances of intolerance in recent time. Prime Minister is right when he said terrorism is obstacle in development of any nation especially ISIS is a challenge. I fully agree with the statement at the same time internal insurgencies, communal clashes and attacks on scholars and other sections also have the same damages in the path of development. Our Prime Minister is unable to control forces behind him who create all these problems. Now you have to realize the fact that your own forces are digging the burial ground of your Government.

SHRI P. K. BIJU: I appreciate the Government to have such a session in the Parliament upholding the democratic ethos of our country and the tolerance shown to debate over intolerance. The Intolerance atmosphere was considerably enhanced with the gross insensitivity shown by the BJP leadership to its intolerant rank and file. Government's efforts are taking the country back to the days of feudalism where the elites have all the opportunity. Around 400 artists have now joined their protest against the ideology of the Modi Government. Key positions in

14 cultural and academic institutions had been filled by those handpicked by the

Government. Instead of creating an atmosphere of fear, the Government should mend its ways so that all the sections of our country has the freedom to live their live with full of vigour and happiness.

SHRI MD. BADARUDDOZA KHAN: It is a matter of serious concern that intolerance is growing in India faster than ever before. Never in Independent

India, so many writers, essayist, scientists come together to protest against

Government and its silence. Our Prime Minister remained silent for a long time and finally he advised people to follow the statement of Hon'ble President Shri

Pranab Mukherjee but he himself uttered not a single word against such killings and intolerance. Actually Hindus and Muslims of India are not intolerant. They are the victim of some political parties. Now the time came all the parliamentarians from both sides should condemn intolerance unitedly.

SHRI DHARAM VIRA GANDHI: Owning to certain incidents, an atmosphere has been created in the country causing a feeling of insecurity in the minorities and people with scientific temper and we are debating this issue here in this House. Right from the year 1947 to the year 2015 communal and caste rights have been happening and various political parties have taken advantage of the backwardness of the people. Safety and security of minorities is the responsibility of majority and the safety and security of dalits is the responsibility of non-dalits.

Likewise, safety of women is the responsibility of men.

SHRIMATI KIRRON KHER: I stand here today to take part in this debate on the so-called rising intolerance in India. I would like to question this. When were we more tolerant than we are now? Do we have a reference point in recent history? Stray incidents have been happening all over India for many many years.

Strangely, our wonderful intellectuals have been returning their awards; they are the people whom we respect very deeply. I want to ask them, where was their conscience all these years when so many things that should have shaken their conscience happened? Where were they when the ethnic cleansing of Kashmiri

Pandits took place? One of my friend from the TDP said that you never find

Indian refugees anywhere, and I am proud to agreed with him. But, sadly, within our own country we find the Hindu minority of Jammu and Kashmir as refugees in their own country. Let us take the case of the Sikhs who were massacred. Truly intolerant times were when thousands of Sikhs were massacred throughout India.

Yet, many of these intellectuals accepted awards and positions of power by the then Congress Government in the Centre. Was their conscience not awakening to the intolerance? I question this so-called intolerance. Forced sterilizations took place in the garb of family planning in 1975. Anyone who voiced his protest, was either jailed or muscled. We need to understand the motive behind these protests and the fabricated nature of the unrest that has taken over the country. The two documentary filmmakers have started the problem about this intolerance. We know them. The Indian film industry has faced great intolerance from the

Congress Party over the years. Many people from our side and also from the other side made certain comments and remarks. I do not support those remarks. A lot of people in the Opposition benches made extremely sexist remarks against women.

We should be ready to hear all voices. Perceptions are very dangerous. Let us not make them for political gain. About Gujarat, it has also been proved that certain police officers and certain NGOs were complicit with certain political parties in making that perception alive about the Prime Minister of this country. They say that no real development is taking place on the ground but I would ask as to how it can happen when they do not let the bills passed in the Parliament. I want to point out that UP has the highest number of cases of communal violence. A young man called Mr. Sampath, who had started a wonderful Literary Festival in Bangaluru, had to resign because of intolerance of the intellectuals who had persuaded him to return his Sahitya Akademi Award but he said that "I do not want to return it. I respect it" then, there was a whisper campaign to all the other participants persuading them not to join the festival. I do not feel our ruling party is at all intolerant. Fringe elements are there in all parties but they cannot be elected persons. My request to all of you is do not hate so much and do not provoke us to hate you so much. We do not hate you.

SHRI SUMEDHANAND SARSWATI: I feel that many people have not properly understood the spirit of expressions of framers of our Constitution. The

English knowing people defined 'Dharma' as religion whereas the religion actually mean 'Panth'. The people during the time of independence sacrificed their lives rising above their religion and sect. Hence, there is a need to follow the teachings of Shankar, Buddha, Dayanand, Vivekanand, Nanak and Gandhi.

SHRI SHARAD TRIPATHI: The fact is that if the Constitution of the country is based on secularism then why this issue is being discussed. People who are returning awards like "Padam Bhushan" and "Padam Shri" are dishonouring these awards and are dishonouring thousands of those people who have received this award. We have always given respect to the Nation and Nationalists and we will continue to do so.

DR. RATNA (NAG) DE: The atmosphere has been vitiated. Everywhere, there is intolerance. People are killed for expressing their opinion. This should stop. Instead of looking deep into the issue and introspecting, the Government is passing the buck. Nothing concrete has been done to remove poverty, to improve the standard of education, remove unemployment, reduce the price rise.

DR. KIRIT SOMAIYA: We Indians believe in Vishwa Dharma. Couple of incident have taken place in the last few months. Nobody supports such behaviour.

We must avoid the game of vote bank politics in the name of intolerance.

SHRI D.K. SURESH: India is known worldwide for its peaceful living.

Tolerance is part and parcel of the Indian way of life. It is unfortunate that in recent days intolerance is rising in the country due to unfortunate incidents. Ours is the largest democratic country in the world. The Constitution has provided every citizen with fundamental rights and duties to ensure that the people of India should live a peaceful and dignified life. It is the duty of the Government to ensure every citizen feels safe irrespective of their cast, creed or religion. I would like to urge upon the Union Government to take immediate necessary measures to tackle the incidents of intolerance in the country.

SHRI B.S. YEDIYURAPPA: I am of the view that this subject of intolerance stems from the wrong understanding of the concept of secularism, nationalism and communalism. Congress has deliberately twisted and distorted the meaning of secularism, nationalism and communalism. It is the Congress and the

Left Parties who have created and manufactured this whole atmosphere of so called intolerance solely and purely for political ends. There is no intolerance among the people. This entire campaign is to malign not only the Modi-

Government but also the entire country. India is destined to march ahead towards a better and confident tomorrow.

ADV. JOICE GEORGE: I am thankful to you for giving me the opportunity to participate in the discussion on the situation arising out of incidents of intolerance in the Country. The basic structure of our Constitution is essentially secular and pluralistic in nature representing the long-long tradition, our culture of tolerance. Therefore, every attempt to attack the basic fabric of our Constitution is detrimental to our interests irrespective of the religion sects, caste which we belong. Under article 26 of the Constitution the inalienable right has been conferred on every individual to choose or not to choose his belief and religion.

The interests of the SCs, STs, OBCs and, minorities have been safeguarded through protective measures provided under Part-III of the Constitution. But the incidents arising out of intolerance are causing fear among a large section of the people and will hamper the development of the nation. Hence I urge upon the

Government to be proactive for preventing the untoward incidence arising out of intolerance.

SHRIMATI KOTHAPALLI GEETHA: India is a country of vast diversity and the people of India are living in great harmony for decades. We have people of different religions and different castes and cultures. Some of the recent violent acts give liberals the ammunition they need to get a conversation about intolerance. A vast majority of Indians voted the BJP to power because it gave them hope of development and freedom from corruption. The government of

India should take stringent measures to curb this intolerant attitude. I depose firm faith in the Hon'ble Prime Minister that he will uphold the constitutional dignity by providing due protection to the fundamental rights of the citizens of this great nation.

DR. SHASHI THAROOR: On this issue my principal suggestion is that the Government should start taking its own slogans seriously and put India first.

India's great strength is our legacy of civilizational pluralism coupled with our robust democracy. Today I am proud to represent Thiruvananthapuram here which is an example of religious pluralism. Our democracy in the last 70 years has been built on the idea that a nation may celebrate differences. One of the basic ground rules is respect for differences, not just respect but acceptance of difference. It is the responsibility of a Government to uphold our idea of difference and to reject any attempt to dilute it. The impression has already gained ground abroad that

India is governed by reactionary forces determined to put minorities, rationalist and liberals in their place. This is posing calculable damage to our world image. I appreciate the Prime Minister for his very optimistic message sent out during a rally in Gandhi Maidan of Patna in which he had said that the Hindus had a simple alternative either to fight poverty to the Muslims. There took place a blast in that rally but he did not use it politically. Now his voice is missing.

SHRI BHAIRON PRASAD MISHRA: Our country has always been tolerant. Many invaders from abroad have attacked our culture many times but principles and integrity of our country have remained intact. Today debates on serious issues inside house is being used to gain political mileage which is worrisome. Some political parties, particularly regional parties try to create such situation through their statements and speeches for which there is a need for effective measures to check it. Everyone should be given equal honour and equal opportunity. It will help us control intolerance.

SHRI : It is very unfortunate to have discussion on the situation arising out of certain incidents of intolerance in the country, because our country faces a large number of other problems today. If any citizen holds certain point of view about any subject, he/she should not try to impose it on others, rather he/she should keep it to himself/herself. The intellectual class should desist from any such action or statement which is harmful for the unity and integrity of India and spreads casteists and religious frenzy. National

Democratic Alliance is making every possible effort to protect the unity and integrity of the country. DR. VIRENDRA KUMAR: A large number of people are feeling hurt because of politicization of the matter of intolerance. Pundits of Kashmir Valley are forced to live in various parts of their own country as a refugee. The intellectuals, journalists, litterateurs, stage artists of this country were silent and are silent against this intolerance. People coming from Pakistan and Bangladesh on pilgrimage have no fear whatsoever here. But no person from India can go to visit places of religious importance in Bangladesh and Pakistan without worry. The culture of this country has been tolerant since centuries. Citizens of the country are getting united against this conspiracy to weaken India. The majority community of this country is not against the followers of other religion. We all should be of the view that our country is of paramount importance.

SHRI SUDHEER GUPTA: Only some of us are levelling allegation against this great nation and telling it an intolerant one. But intolerant leaders did not take care of children after the division of the country in 1947. Today we are addressing a man intolerant who is taking country to name and fame in the world and who is writing new story of development. Let us bring the collective intolerant behaviour of so called progressive people before the country.

SHRI ALOK SANJAR: Our country has been a tolerant nation for thousands of years and will remain so. This issue of intolerance is being raised knowingly so that the you can come to power by taking political mileage. The people should remember the partition of the country. The memories of partition of

India on religious ground are fresh even today. The schemes, thoughts and

Modiji''s commitments to development is getting support from all over the worlds whereas few people are trying to malign the image of PM Modi for their political benefits and vote bank politics. Unfortunately, mere 40 out of 1200 eminent people have returned their awards. Some events have certainly happened and not more than 5 people have been died in these incidents. During the UPA Governments 700 incidents of communal violence occurred in 2010, more than 580 incidents reported in 2011 and similarly more than 650 incidents occurred in 2012. In 2013 nearly 133 people were killed and more than 2200 people injured in 800 communal incidents. The incidents of communal violence have came down since the Modiji led NDA government has came to power. Let us not do the politics on intolerance.

PROF. SUGATA BOSE: The word intolerance is a mere euphemism for a wave of unreason, injustice and inhumanity that has been unleashed across our country during the last few months. In order to confront the challenges that face our country today, a powerful message needs to go out from this Lok Sabha. Dr.

Ambedkar had said that it is for the majority to realize its duty not to discriminate against minorities. Dr. Ambedkar told us that Constitutional morality has to be cultivated and the people have to learn it. I urge this Government to listen to the voices of our most brilliant thinkers, writers, historians, scientists, artists and activists. We are not saying that India is intolerant. We are saying that followers, supporters and even some Members of this Government are spreading a virulent form of prejudice and bigotry. Intolerance is bad but tolerance is not good enough.

We must cultivate the value of cultural intimacy among our diverse communities.

That was the foundation of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose's political philosophy.

People belonging to all religion had fought for the freedom of this country. The original martyres' memorial had been blown up by Mountbatten's forces. The

Singapore Government built a new memorial 50 years later in 1995. We have observed an Anniversary of the Constitution and the Birth Anniversary of Dr. B.R.

Ambedkar. I think that we ought to be observing the 70th Anniversary of the Red

Fort trials that began on the 5th November 1945 and ended on 31st December,

1945. We have to rekindle spirit of the winter of 1945 in India today. Our fight against intolerance is essentially a fight against unreason, injustice and inhumanity.

Dr. Ambedkar would have been horrified to see this happen. I urge our Prime

Minister and our home Minister to uphold the fundamental right to life and liberty of all our citizens.

SHRI : I strongly oppose the move brought by the opposition on intolerance under Rule 193 and would like to say that

India marching forward towards getting first position in the direction of development under the able leadership of Narender Modi Governments which is committed to the Sabka Sath Aur Sabka Vikas. I would like to say that Central

Legislations should be brought to prevent the unfortunate events like Dadri incidents in Uttar Pradesh, protection of Cow and to construct a magnificent temple at Shri Ram Janam Bhumi - centre of millions Rama's devotees, to expel

Bangladeshi intruders as well as a campaign should be launched to take away voting rights from these Bangladeshi intruders. The Government of Uttar Pradesh is practising religious discrimination in government schemes by allocating funds for constructing boundary wall around the graveyards but not a single paisa is being allotted to Hindu's cremation ground. The Muslim girls are given grants after clearing their 10th exam but even the poorest Hindu girls are denied such grants. I appreciate the efforts being made by the Central Governments for maintaining tolerance in the country.

SHRI DILIPKUMAR MANSUKHLAL GANDHI: When any

Government takes oath and comes to power, it follows norms of constitutional system. So intolerance can have no relation to it. In purview of our Constitution

Government gives awards to persons, so the award comes under constitutional category. This cannot be rejected that opposition is creating atmosphere propaganda against government. Hon. Minister of Home has given an assurance for security and safety to all the sections of our country. Some people have forgotten that great personalities as Hargobind Khurana, Amartya Sen, Kalpana

Chawla, Sunita Visyam, Jubin Mehta, Dr. Kotnese, Dr. Homi Bhaba, Dr. Kalam are all citizens of this country. The craftsman of this country work with full dedication. Same is with the labourer. People who give advice to leave the country are not respecting constitution and are also not respecting the dignity of our country. Such tendencies should be strongly dealt with. Only then the intolerant atmosphere created by such people can be defeated.

SHRI RADHESHYAM BISWAS: We got freedom because of the sacrifices made by the people of this country belonging to all castes and communities. They fought against the dictatorship and the colonial rule imposed by the British Government. Our forefathers continued the fight for years until the country got Independence on the 15th of August 1947. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar led a team to write a comprehensive Constitution for India which provided equal rights and justice to all citizens of our country. Today India is the largest democratic country in the world where people of different faiths, castes, creeds and colour are living together. I feel honoured to state here that our forefathers were protectors of unity in diversity in our country. It seems that we have failed in fulfilling the duties entrusted by our forefathers. Today a situation is arising in the country where people are living in fear and face intolerance in the name of religion and caste. This is an absolute threat to the spirit of unity in diversity. The trend of growing communal hatred is a matter of great concern. The Dadri incident was the result of a communal hatred. When some people protest against rising incidents of intolerance, they are blamed to be agents of the Opposition parties, and even they are advised to leave the country. The Government needs to act promptly against those who are responsible for this.

DR. BOORA NARSAIAH GOUD: Tolerance is in the DNA and the blood of every Indian and Indian culture. ''Isolated Incidents" are happening, but we political parties, media indentified with on or other party lines are propagating it as if ''Intolerance'' is systematic in India. I come from a place where the concept of

Ganga-Jamuna Tehzeeb culture meets called Telangana. Our culture, our nature, our DNA is much stronger than ''Religious Fanatics, political mechanism, and foreign powers''. Be intolerant towards poverty, corruption, religious intolerance.

SHRI RODMAL NAGAR: Now a days a debate is being done on tendency of intolerance in the country. This is based on religion. We must stand and think that this country has been following norms of full tolerance. Many religious have come to this country as Islam, Christianity, Parsi, Unani and Bahai

Sufi traditions have also entered our society. Many new traditions have made our life good. Even then we are calling this country as intolerant. Somewhere our society has rejected tolerance and given leadership to intolerance. Tolerant leaders as Subhash Chandra Bose, Sardar Patel, Dr. Ambedkar, Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, Dr. Madan Mohan Malviya, Gopal Krishan Gokhale and Veer

Savarkar and Shri Jai Prakash Narayan are being forgotten and intolerant leaders are gaining leadership.

SHRI DUSHYANT CHAUTALA: Today, we are having a debate on intolerance. It pains me to say that in the country of 123 crore population if any person belonging to minority commits suicide, our colleagues make it a national issue. If any person from majority community commits suicide then it becomes an state issue but if our farmers commit suicide then there is nobody in this country to make it any issue. 63 per cent of our population is that of farmers. We call this section of society timid. If any litterateurs returns his medals then the people in opposition benches terms it as intolerance. Our retired Army officers are agitating for more than 200 days but nobody talks about their tolerance. 83 crore youth in the country have no employment but nobody talks about them. I request the government now to do something for youth also. We should think about our soldiers, farmers and youth.

SHRI AJAY MISRA TENI : India has always been a country of multi religion, multi language and multi culture and will remain so. But some such political parties which were enjoying the treasury benches for a long time are afraid of the progress of this government which is getting respect and acceptance for India in and around the world. Such type of people who were gaining by flattering of a political family, so far, did not concern with non availability of education, health facilities, electricity and drinking water. Now they are discussing on intolerance sitting in 5 star hotel after returning awards. Hon'ble Speaker, I want to say through you that our country and our culture have always been tolerance and will be.

SHRI A.T. NANA PATIL: Today, in the country especially through media a propaganda is being made that since Modi's Government came in power in the country, intolerance is being promoted. I want to ask whether a person of any minority has been killed first time in the country? Whether any person of majority is not killed? I want to ask why the writers did not return their awards on that time when Lakhs of Kashmiris were being beaten and forced to leave Kashmir in 90s. It is shocking that attacks are being made on our national integrity daily. In my opinion it is shameful to see any communal incident. The Government should take steps immediately. Certain anti-social elements want to disturb communal harmony. Diversity and tolerance are the values of the country and it cannot be abolished. Our Government is totally against any type of communal dogmatism.

Tolerance is a respect of the Constitution and it should be given priority. We should respect of other's determinations and faiths.

SHRI SUBHASH PATEL: There is continuity in Indian civilisation and it is because of our liberal thinking, diversity and tolerance. Today, some people are willingly disturbing the values of the country. No doubt, tolerance is being promoted by the government of NDA, but the political leaders with politically vested interests are misusing the word of tolerance.

DR. : We are listening to a debate on tendency of intolerance, but it can do no good to anyone. India is a multilingual and multi religious country. Many types of people reside in this country. If we think and consider in comparison to other Muslim countries, people in our country have full freedom to follow their religious faith. People have different types of choices.

Some want to take different things and others different. This is individual. I think if we follow Dr. B.R. Ambedkar we would respect all downtrodden, Poor, Backward people. I conclude with this.

SHRI E. T. MOHAMMAD BASHEER: We were holding our head high with proud that our country is the country of tolerance and the country which was liberated from the British Empire by Mahatma Gandhi through Ahimsa. Now this country would bow down its head out of shame and agony. The whole nation is very much worried on this. The incidents of intolerance in the country are most unfortunate. It is the by-product of the BJP's political chemistry. BJP cannot wash their hands from these kinds of things. If communal tensions are created, they can fish in troubled water. Even if BJP take bath in the holy river Ganga a thousand and one times, the stain of that sin cannot be cleared from their conscience. SHRIMATI : Every state of the country has contributed in the composite culture of the country. The incidents of intolerance have been mentioned here in the House. These incidents have been a jolt on the soul of the country. Whether only such incidents occurs in our country which spreads hatred among the people of various castes and religions. Whether such incidents do not occur in our country which exhibits the mutual love and harmony among the people. No newspaper or TV channel in our country report or report upon such incidents which are the example of love and harmony. The media should shun the negative bias and should play a positive role. There is a race between the ruling and Opposition to pin point whether more incidents took place during the NDA regime or during the UPA regime. I do not endorse this view as well that we should shirk our responsibility by shifting the onus on the state government. There is a need for us to ponder over that what sort of changes should be brought in the policies to check occurrence of such incidents.

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME

AFFAIRS (SHRI KIRAN RIJIJU) : Today, the atmosphere in the country is fully tolerant. India is a vast country and many events had happened in it. There are several incidents which should be condemned by all. The atmosphere of highest intolerance was prevalent in 1975 when all civil rights and civil liberties were abolished and judicial rights had been taken away by the government. The atmosphere was also intolerant when a Prime Minister justified the murdering of more than 3000 Sikhs by saying 'when a big tree falls, earth shakes'. When the people of North-East or other States are ask to leave from their places of staying, study or profession; when the Kashmiri Pandits are forced to leave their homeland and became refugee in their own nation; or a person like Mother Teresa is banned to enter Arunachal Pradesh, then such type of atmosphere may be called intolerance. My government has not imposed any ban on any person to move or to work in any place in India during the last 17 months. It has been accepted that the ban imposed 27 years ago on the book written by Salman Rusdie was wrong. It means you took intolerant step 27 years ago. A senior Congress Leader said that

P.A. Sangama could not become the President because his religion or his caste do not belongs to mainstream. This was the intolerant statement. We had certainly criticised you but our criticism were based on your policy, on your agenda, on your way of functioning but we never let the image of the country tarnished while playing the role of opposition. Let us not denigrate the status of the nation. Let us spread the message of love and compassion.

SHRIMATI RAMA DEVI: Religious tolerance has been the part of Indian cultural legacy. Ever since the new Government at the Center has come, certain intellectuals have created a different type of atmosphere in the country as if there were such religious intolerance in the country that one could not stay even for a single day here. Individual incidents of crime are being put together to create such situation whereas the truth remains that there is no such atmosphere in the country.

A particular section has been complaining that attacks on secularism has increased in the country too much under the present NDA government led by BJP. Although they conveniently forget the record of Congress rule. This is bringing bad name to the country in international community.

SHRI ASADUDDIN OWAISI : I condemn the killings of Akhlaque,

Numan and Zahid. We have two political power centers; one abuses Muslims and

Dalits and the other uses them. My concern over here is why is it that after 68 years of Independence the Muslims cannot find or rent a house or flat in any metropolitan city. The Government has taken little care of Muslims and Dalits as regards to education. A large number of Muslims are lodged in jails as under trials in numerous States. My suggestion is that the Government should amend the

NHRC Act. It should give NHRC the power to inquire communal riots so that the responsibility can be fixed on the SP and DM. I would request the Government to form in your Internal Security Division a section which monitors Hindu fanatics.

The Government should form an Equal Opportunities Commission and give constitutional status to the MCM. They cannot break us down into wahabism and

Sufism. The whole Muslim Community has to be taken along. SHRI : A few days ago the Prime Minister talked about the architects of our Constitution. He showed tremendous sign of respect for the

Constitution. For Modiji, the people he mentioned were intellectual heroes, to be worshipped. For me, what was heroic about them was their ability to listen to the people of India. They became the voice of the people they served. For me, the real authors of the Constitution were the very people of this country. The

Constitution gives all Indians Fundamental Rights and the Right to Equality is the first and the most important one. But that right of people to equality is also violated these days and the Prime Minister keeps mum. Modi Ji gives lectures to everybody and in India. He talks about FDI and skill India but when students in

FTII with superb skills complain, the Government simply tries to crush the will of the students. Dabholkar Ji, Pansare Ji and Kalburgi Ji were shot dead in cold blood by fanatics but the Prime Minister has nothing to say about it. This Government does not allow dissent anywhere neither in the country, nor in the party. Writers, intellectuals and artists of this country give their awards back as a sign of protest but the Government does not even bother to speak to them. Our greatest strength is our tolerance. The Government should learn to be tolerant and listen to the voice of the people.

KUNWAR : The opposition parties are not able to digest the good work of the Government which has led to the debate on tolerance and intolerance in the country. Indian culture has been praised the world over for thousands of years. So called intellectuals have damaged the image of the country by calling it intolerant. This anti national act which is like a proxy war should be criticized to the extent possible. India is the most tolerant country.

Our Government is intolerant towards traitors, perpetrators of atrocities, corrupt, the poverty, backwardness and diseases.

DR. KULAMANI SAMAL: We are a country having a lot of diversities at every level of our life style. So, we should deal in a manner by which everybody can proceed ahead being together as the part of a nation. Our Prime Minister has given a call for development. So when we talk about development, scientific temper, freedom of speech, we should not be so intolerant towards others. The policy should clearly be inclusive policy as we cannot ignore anybody at least for the sake of development. Our society has survived upon the values of co-existence since the time immemorial. So my sincere request to the people of all the communities, religions, castes and section is to think in progressive manner so that the provocative circumstances could be avoided. It is necessary for the

Government to provide protection to the people of the country.

SHRI S.P. MUDDAHANUME GOWDA: There is growing intolerance in the country causing an explosive situation. Growing intolerance means we are departing from traditions, culture, legacy and civilization of this country which teach us spirit of tolerance. Growing intolerance in the country reached maximum when Mohammad Akhlaq, a villager from Dadri was beaten to death by a group for consuming beef. Intolerance also came into the field of literature, music and sports also. More than 40 intellectuals and writers have returned literary awards to protest the rise in intolerance and the assault on free speech. Hon. President of

India, has also expressed his concern to growing incidents of intolerance. But the

Government has maintained unfortunate silence on this matter. I am against social discrimination against weaker sections of the society. The Central Government and the State Governments should act as per various rules, laws and provisions enshrined in the Constitution for the welfare of weaker sections of the society. In the name of religion, atrocities are being committed and the Government is not taking any action against killing of minorities, Dalits and other poor people. I urge upon the Central Government to take immediate action against the culprits and mitigate the fear in the minds of minorities.

SHRI KONDA VISHWESHWAR REDDY: The real problem in India is that we are 'too tolerant'. We are too tolerant towards corruption, illiteracy, litter, pollution, crumbling public infrastructure, food adulteration amongst several other issues. We are too tolerant towards dealing with anti-national elements and terrorists. India is too tolerant. We tolerate fringe leaders, news anchors and celebrities giving us lessons on "secularism" and "tolerance". If "intolerance" was something new, how did the writers and artists respond to Salman Rushdie's book-

Satanic Verses- being banned? Why are they not speaking about Taslima Nasreen who has been exiled from Bangladesh, and is a refugee in India? It is unfair to hold the Central Government, one man or one party responsible for stray incidents of communal violence. We cannot permit misinformation to derail harmonious growth in India. Living in a democracy that has as many languages, religions and states as ours, we need to understand that differences will arise but these should not be converted into political statements.

SHRI PRALHAD JOSHI: This country is a secular country. They are talking so much about Kalburgi. But I want to tell that this matter was handed over to CID of Karnataka to investigate. CID had made a statement that they have stopped the investigation because the Karnataka Government is not providing funds to them. The people from Congress and Communists are talking of 'right wing terrorists'. But they have also shown their intolerance. Prashant Poojari was murdered because he raised the voice against illegal cow slaughter. He started an agitation. He was challenged by saying that if he continues with his agitation, he will be murdered. After that, he was murdered. Again so far as stopping of CID inquiry in Kalburgi case is concerned I request the hon. Home Minister with folded hands to hand over this case to the CBI. Then everybody will come to know as to what is the truth. These people are trying to mislead the entire country. SHRI R. DHRUVANARAYANA: So many artists, academicians, writers and other rationalists have returned their awards. There is evidence of growing intolerance in our nation. We cannot turn a blind eye to these incidents and say this is not a matter of intolerance. These incidents cannot just be called labelled a matter of Law and Order and brushed off. When we have a Constitution that guarantees freedom and liberty to everyone. It is shame if we destroy what we have taken years to build. There is intolerance in this nation, people are being murdered, raided. It is our duty, the Government's duty to stop it from persisting and growing.

SHRI KAUSHALENDRA KUMAR: There is a debate on intolerance ever since this Government came to power. Not only the president of this country but also the US president Obama Saheb talked intolerance while visiting India. Let us come together to develop this country and learn it from leader of the grand alliance in Bihar Shri Nitish Kumar then certainly the country will make progress.

SHRI C.N. JAYADEVAN: After Independence on 1948, January 30th bullets were fired on Mahatma Gandhi ji's chest. From that day, the intolerance of the Sangh Pariwar has manifested to silence all those with whom you could not agree ideologically. Day before yesterday, while addressing the international seminar in Paris our Prime Minister said, that only some people should not exploit the natural resources of the poor in the third world countries. You talk about the advanced countries, exploiting the poor in the third world, but what about the rich capitalists of this country who are exploiting the poor of our own country? Can we demarcate, the caste and religion of the capitalists of this country. We cannot show tolerance to these forces, and intolerance should not be shown to any caste and religious groups.

SHRI N.K. PREMACHANDRAN: It is a fact that after this Government assumed power, series of incidents of tolerance has happened in our country. First, there is a murder of Indian intellectual, writer, philosopher, etc. Secondly, there is an unwanted controversy on the consumption of beef. Thirdly, there are irresponsible statements of the responsible ministers and the persons who are holding important offices in the Government. These are the three reasons by which the incidents of tolerance have been increasing in the country. Intolerance was there in the country during the time of the UPA Government also but none of the Government officials or the Prime Minister, either by silence or by words supported the incidents of intolerance in our country. So, my suggestion is that strong and stringent action has to be taken by the Prime Minister. Only then, we can contain this tolerance.

THE MINISTER OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI ) replying said: We are discussing the situation arising out of intolerance in the country. I respect the views of all hon. Members. Anyone living in India whatever caste, creed or religion he belongs to is considered a member of family and the message of Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam is sent out to the world from the soil of India.

Tolerance is our tradition and culture. This is very serious subject so I want those who allege to rethink as this is a self defeating subject. I appeal to all to refrain from making such statements. Please do not malign the image of the country in international community. This allegation is not on the party or the government but

I feel it is on the Indian society and the nation. Tolerance means allowing the rights to others what you aspire for yourself. If the country has been listening to a particular ideology till now then they should listen to others as well to be called tolerant. I believe that this country has witnessed three major instances of intolerance- first when the country was divided. Although some demanded to divide the country on the basis of religion and country was divided in the name of

Hindus and Muslims but people of our ideology did not want the country to be divided on the basis of religion. We wanted the country to be one and undivided.

Second time, it was when emergency was imposed and the third time in the year

1984 when the country witnessed riots. We all know which party was in power all these three times and who were responsible for this. In fact those who have been defeated by ideology are creating an atmosphere of so called intolerance just to malign the image of the Government. I am sorry to say that there is an attempt to create a bogey in the name of intolerance. As the Home Minister of the country and on behalf of the Prime Minister I want to assure the country that whosoever tries to disturb the social and religious harmony of the country, will not be spared.

Who is behind spreading hatred against this elected government with huge public support- first we have to get rid of this intolerance. Intolerance find no place in

Indian tradition. So far as the incident of Dadri is concern, the report submitted by the Uttar Pradesh nowhere mentions communal angle or beef. It has no mention of even premeditated murder. If the Government of Uttar Pradesh request CBI inquiry into the incident, the central government is ready. I want to appeal to the litterateurs, artists, teachers, satirist, craftsmen, painters and scientists that whenever the country has faced any crisis these people have led the country. If they feel that there are emerging such situations, they should come forward to guide us. If we are taking any wrong step, we are ready to mend.

The discussion was concluded.

ANOOP MISHRA Secretary General

© 2015 BY LOK SABHA SECRETARIAT NOTE: It is the verbatim Debates of the Lok Sabha and not the Synopsis that should be considered authoritative.

English and Hindi versions of Synopsis of Debates are also available at http://loksabha.nic.in.