Criticising the returning of awards over “intolerance”, Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Sunday said there was a politically-motivated drive behind the negative agenda by a few writers and artists.
“The country witnessed unfortunate situation few days ago when some writers and artists returned their awards on the issue of so-called intolerance. This award-returning campaign was part of a politically-motivated campaign launched by the opponents of the BJP for Bihar elections,” Naqvi said at an award function here and observed that the negative campaign ended with the election results.
“Tolerance, brotherhood, social harmony, these are in the DNA of India and its people. Nobody can destroy it. Our culture and heritage are our strength,” Naqvi, who holds the charge of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs as Minister of State, said.
He further said returning award is not important but getting the same is. “Various Governments and organisations award people in recognition of their service to the nation. Awards also strengthen their mission of giving positive message to the society. They should take care of dignity of the awards given to them,” he said.
Appealing to the intellectual community including artists, writers and others, Naqvi said they should contribute to take forward wave of development in the country.
“If these intellectuals get influenced by politically- motivated propaganda and knowingly or unknowingly become a part of conspiracy to block the nation’s development journey, then this will not only affect the nation’s image but also that of the awards given to them for their own achievements,” he said.