CPI MP Binoy Viswam has written to information and broadcasting minister Prakash Javadekar, opposing the telecast of the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Ram temple in Ayodhya on Doordarshan as it will be “contrary to the accepted norms of national integrity”.

In his letter to Javadekar, Viswam said Section 12(2)(a) of the Prasar Bharati Act, which governs the functioning of Doordarshan, clearly states that the objective of the national broadcaster is to uphold “the unity and integrity of the country and the values enshrined in the Constitution”.

“As the national broadcaster for a country that is founded on the principles of secularism and religious harmony, the use of Doordarshan to broadcast the religious function at Ayodhya on 5th August is contrary to the accepted norms of national integrity.

“In a secular democracy, state practice and organisations must be kept devoid of religious inclinations and attempts must be made to ensure that the religious sentiments of all communities are respected,” the CPI leader said.

It will be mature for the government to resist the “attempts to politicise” the issue and ensure that India’s secular image is not compromised, he said.