Amid Haridwar hate speech row, Vice President Naidu's strong message on secularism

Amid outrage over hate speeches and calls for violence against Muslims at Haridwar Dharam Sansad, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu has sent a strong message on secularism.

Venkaiah Naidu on Monday expressed his strong disapproval of attempts to ridicule other religions and create dissensions in society. He said that every person has the right to practice and preach his or her faith in the country.

"Practice your religion but don't abuse and indulge in hate speech and writings," the Vice President said at an event organised to mark the 150th death anniversary of Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara in Kerala's Kottayam. Saint Kuriakose was a spiritual leader and social reformer from the Kerala Catholic community.

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Observing that hate speeches and writings are against culture, heritage, traditions, constitutional rights and ethos, Naidu said secularism is in the blood of every Indian and the country is respected world-over for its culture and heritage.

In this context, the Vice President called for strengthening the Indian value system, an official statement said.

The Vice President said community service must be made compulsory for students studying in government as well as private schools as it would help them to develop an attitude of sharing and caring in their interaction with others.