From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Feb 2: After basking in the glory for the presence of US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama as the official guests to participate in the country’s 66th Republic Day parade and the subsequent talks that Prime Minister had with the visiting dignitary, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has now termed Obama’s reference to the religious divide in India was "really unfortunate."
Rajnath Singh, who served as the BJP national president till Amit Shah took over from him, however, said he "endorsed" the US President’s stand in his farewell address that an India divided on religious lines cannot progress.
Speaking the reporters after attending a function at the Taralabalu Mutt in Bengaluru, he said: "I think that comment (on religious divide) was really unfortunate. But I endorse his views that the country divided on religious lines cannot prosper."
"He (Obama) is correct," Rajnath Singh said when reporters asked him for his reaction on the US President’s speech in his farewell address.
'Ghar Wapsi' not on Government's agenda
On the issue of the controversial 'Ghar Wapsi' programme undertaken by Sangh Parivar outfits, the Union Home Minister reiterated that the government will stand firm against such issues.
"There is no scope for any activity like Ghar Wapsi in the nation as the BJP completely believes in secularism and will be committed to tackle issues that would divide people on communal lines," he declared.
He made it clear that "the government under any circumstances will not entertain such acts by any group or individual."
The Narendra Modi government has taken steps to maintain good diplomatic relations with all the countries across the world and the move would definitely play crucial role in tackling complicated issues like border disputes with neighbouring countries, terrorism and internal security of the nation.
Asked about bringing back black money from different countries bank accounts, the minister said it was a major poll agenda of the party during the lok sabha elections.
He mentioned that the government has formed Special Investigation Team (SIT) after coming to power and the SIT has made considerable progress in sorting out the issue.
The government is committed on its assurance and brings back all the black money, he declared.
People-friendly but tough police needed
The Union Home Minister, who reviewed the Law and Order situation in Karnataka at a high-level meeting held in Bangaluru on Monday, said a people friendly but tough police is needed to take strong action against criminals and terrorists.
He advised the Karnataka Police to fill up all its vacancies which was nearly 20 percent of its total strength, on a priority basis.
He also asked them to adopt latest technology and modernize the forces and instructed the authorities to take action on reports of discrimination against people from the North Eastern states living in Bangaluru.
The Home Minister also asked the State administration to remain vigilant on illegal immigration from Bangladesh in Karnataka.
Action against the sale of pre-activated SIM cards in the State was also discussed in the meeting.
The Government of Karnataka requested the Centre to sanction two extra Indian Reserve Police battalions for the state and the Union Home Minister has assured them that their demand would be positively examined.
Rajnath Singh also stated that the Centre will consider increasing the number of Marine India Reserve Battalions in the state to strengthen its coastal security.