Unfurl Tricolour atop places of worship tomorrow: Minister

Chandigarh, January 24

Industries Minister Vipul Goel today urged people to unfurl the national flag at religious places and atop buildings of religious institutions on January 26 to promote nationalism.

“I appeal to people to unfurl the national flag at all religious places, including temples, mosques and churches, alongside flags of their respective faiths, on the occasion of Republic Day. We are Indians first and India is bigger than the religions we follow,” he said.

Addressing a press conference, he said this would help create a new India and inculcate a spirit of patriotism and nationalism among the youth.

Stating that religious places in Faridabad, his home district, were ready to roll out this campaign, Goel said workers would reach out to people in all districts to motivate them to do likewise.

“We will unfurl the national flag on all religious places. There are seven mosques in my area and all imams have expressed willingness. I and my supporters will visit religious places and request those concerned to unfurl the national flag atop shrines,” he said.

He denied that this move would stir up a controversy. “Where is the controversy in unfurling the flag and playing the national anthem? Our biggest religion is the nation’s interest,” he said. — TNS