The Legal Rights Protection Forum (LRPF) has filed a formal complaint against the Guntur Municipal Commissioner, alleging contempt of the Supreme Court’s judgment on secularism by organizing a Semi Christmas celebration at public expense. The event is scheduled to take place on December 19, 2024, at the Venkateswara Vignana Mandiram in Guntur.
In a circular (No. 5206/2013/E1) issued on December 16, 2024, the Municipal Commissioner detailed the formation of committees comprising government officials to manage various responsibilities for the event. The tasks assigned include publishing invitations, arranging stage decorations, organizing cultural programs, and providing food, water, and sanitation services. The works are to be supervised by senior municipal officials, including Deputy Commissioners and the City Planner.
The LRPF has strongly condemned the use of public funds for the event, asserting that it violates the secular principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The Forum referenced Article 27, which prohibits the use of public funds for promoting any religion, and cited landmark Supreme Court rulings, including D.A.V. College vs. State of Punjab (1971) and S.R. Bommai vs. Union of India (1994), that reinforce the separation of religion and state.
The Forum has called for the immediate suspension and disciplinary action against the Commissioner. The complaint argues that involving government officials in organizing a religious event undermines the integrity of public office and misuses public resources meant for the welfare of all citizens.
The Forum also stated its intention to approach the Andhra Pradesh High Court if corrective measures are not taken promptly. It emphasized that such actions by government officials erode public trust and contravene constitutional principles.
As of now, the Municipal Administration & Urban Development Department and the District Collector’s office have not issued any statements regarding the allegations or potential actions against the Commissioner.
