Is Nathuram's statue an insult to Gandhi?

Is Nathuram's statue an insult to Gandhi?

Introduction

Nathruram Godse was the assassin of Mahatma Gandhi. He shot Gandhiji three times in the chest during the evening prayer of January 30, 1948 in New Delhi. Godse was sentenced to death in the year 1949.

Today, Godse is in news as the Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha decided to built a temple dedicating it to him. A movie named “Desh Bhakt Nathuram Godse” is also making its way to the theaters on January 30, 2015.

Let us take a look at whether it is justified to build a temple and install Godse's statue.

Yes - Assassin of Father of Nation.

1. Assassin of Gandhi – Mahatma Gandhi was the “Father of our nation”. He struggled a lot to gain independence for India from the Britishers. How can we build a temple for the murderer of Gandhiji?

2. Symbol of violence – Godse was involved in conspiring and executing the murder of an old man. He is a symbol of violence for India. Idolizing and worshiping him will encourage violence and immoral deeds among people.

3. Misuse of public funds– Many people are against the concept of using public funds to make a temple in the memory of Godse, a murderer. Instead, the public funds should be used in the interest of the State and its people.

4. Harm unity – Creating a temple in the name of Godse and worshiping his idol would spread a wrong message and create communal disharmony. It would disturb the unity of people in the country.

5. Disgrace to India – Nathuram Godse is a shame to the country. Installing his idol and worshiping him would bring dishonor to our country. We should do something for Gandhiji rather than worshiping a criminal.

No – Everyone has a right to worship.

1. Right to worship– According to the Constitution of India, people have the right to preach any religion and follow or worship any god or human being. So if a community decides to build a temple for Godse and worship him, it is justified.

2. Creation of Pakistan – According to the supporters of Godse, he had a reason to assassinate Gandhi. Jinnah was the mastermind behind the creation of Pakistan. But along with him, Gandhiji also gave his approval to divide the nation and create violence.

3. Courage– Godse was a man of courage. He stood for what he thought was right for him as well as the nation. Even after assassinating Gandhi, he did not try to flee away. He handed himself over to the police.

4. Hindu Rashtra – Gandhiji created a rift between the Hindus and the Muslims and he had great concern for the Muslims. Godse started the newspaper “Hindu Rashtra” to unite the Hindus and to look after their wants. He wrote editorials wherein he wrote about Gandhiji's support for Pakistan.

5. True patriot – Godse is considered a true patriot by many. He had immense love for his motherland. He stood against the violence which was taking place in our country.

Conclusion

Building a temple and installing the idol of Godse is the opinion of a certain group of people. The Hindu Mahasabha is not forcing anyone to be a part of this initiative. But on the other hand, we should not forget that Gandhiji also had a big role in acquiring freedom for India. For some people Gandhi resides on their lips and Godse reside in their hearts.