BJP MP Promises to Remove ‘Secular’ from Constitution

Karnataka BJP MP Anantkumar Hegde has reignited controversy by reiterating his party’s intention to remove the term “secular” from the Constitution’s preamble. Speaking at a gathering, Hegde urged the public to ensure a two-thirds majority for the BJP in the Lok Sabha to amend the country’s founding document. He emphasized the need for the BJP to secure significant victories in both houses of Parliament and in more than 20 states to achieve this constitutional change.

“Modi said, Ab ki baar 400 paar — Why above 400? … We have two-thirds majority in Lok Sabha, (but) in Rajya Sabha we don’t have two-thirds majority. We have a small majority. In state governments, we don’t have an adequate majority,” Hegde said.

Hegde’s remarks have stirred debate, recalling his past statements from six years prior when he first sparked controversy with similar comments about altering the Constitution. He criticized the Congress for what he perceives as distortions and unnecessary additions to the Constitution, particularly laws that he claims suppress Hindu society. Hegde’s call for constitutional amendments underscores ongoing tensions over secularism and the BJP’s agenda regarding India’s foundational principles.