Between Faith and Secularism: Congress's Balancing Act on Religion

The Indian National Congress (INC) has officially championed secularism since Independence, yet it has often engaged with religious communities through policies and symbolic acts.

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From rebuilding temples to subsidizing pilgrimages, Congress governments have taken many steps involving Hindu and Muslim religious life. These moves were usually justified as fostering national unity or social welfare, but opponents frequently dismiss them as "appeasement."

PUBLIC WORKS AND RELIGIOUS SITE SUPPORT

Somnath Temple (1947-51): Rebuilt under Congress leadership by Vallabhbhai Patel to symbolize national unity after Partition. Though Nehru disapproved of state involvement, President Rajendra Prasad inaugurated it as a cultural restoration, not religious promotion.

Preserving Monuments: Congress governments funded the upkeep of major religious sites (temples, mosques, dargahs) through the Archaeological Survey of India. This was framed as heritage protection, not favouritism, affirming secular values.

Ayodhya Moves (1980s): Rajiv Gandhi's government opened Babri Masjid locks in 1986 and allowed the Ram temple's shilanyas in 1989, aiming to balance Hindu and Muslim sentiments amid political pressures. Critics saw it as vote-driven; Congress called it an effort at communal harmony.

Babri Masjid Rebuild Promise (1992): After the mosque's demolition, PM Narasimha Rao vowed to rebuild it, citing secular justice and the need to restore communal peace. Though never fulfilled, it marked Congress's public commitment to Muslim sentiments.

Somnath Temple Reconstruction (1950-51): Initiated by Sardar Patel and supported by President Rajendra Prasad, the temple was rebuilt to symbolize India's cultural resurgence post-Partition. Funded by public donations to maintain secularism.

Temple Development in Karnataka: Congress leader Janardhana Poojary oversaw the construction and renovation of key temples like Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara Temple and several others, preserving local Hindu heritage.