Chhattisgarh Waqf Board Urges Mosques, Dargahs to Hoist Tricolour on Independence Day

speedy Summary

• The Chhattisgarh Waqf Board has directed all mosques, madrasas, and dargahs in the state to hoist the national flag on Independence Day.
• Salim Raj, Chairman of the Waqf Board, emphasized that this move aims to demonstrate patriotism and unity, stating that “the tricolour is a symbol of honour and pride” unconnected with any religion.
• A letter issued to mosque caretakers (mutawallis) stated the flag should be hoisted at the main gate in the presence of imams or mosque committee members on August 15, 2025.
• Some mutawallis had reportedly expressed hesitation about hoisting the flag during discussions with Mr. Raj, prompting the directive.
• Mr. Raj asserted that respect for the tricolour should transcend religious boundaries and said those who refused had “no right to live on Bharat Mata’s land.”

Indian Opinion Analysis

The chhattisgarh Waqf Board’s directive raises broader questions around balancing patriotic expression with religious autonomy in a pluralistic democracy like India.While it emphasizes national unity by underlining Independence Day celebrations as secular and inclusive events, challenges could arise if communities perceive such directives as coercion rather than voluntary acts of patriotism.

The commentary by Salim Raj framing love for India vis-à-vis compliance with this order may provoke mixed reactions among communities seeking more nuanced definitions of patriotism beyond symbolic gestures like flag-hoisting. Ensuring mutual respect between state directives and cultural practices will likely be essential in fostering genuine unity without alienating particular groups.

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