Alappuzha: In a statement that might kick up a row, Kerala public works minister G. Sudhakaran said lighting of 'Nilavilakku' and recital of prayer should be avoided in government functions and programs in schools. A traditional Kerala lamp, Nilavilakku is often viewed as a Hindu symbol.
The minister said there is no need to light the lamp to inaugurate a government function. "It's not constitutional. One can't be compelled to light the lamp," Sudhakaran said Sunday. He also said one can't be stopped from lighting the lamp if he/she wishes to do so.
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He said government functions cannot be treated as religious function. "Patriotic songs could be sung at government functions," he said, while inaugurating a seminar at Muthukulam as part of the centenary celebrations of Sree Narayana Guru's proclamation that "We don't have caste".
Sudhakaran said caste should be mentioned only in case of reservation in the present circumstances.
(With agency inputs)