BENGALURU: Veteran Congress leader Margaret Alva on Saturday extended support to actor-turned-politician Ramya, who faced criticism for her comments praising Pakistan.
Speaking at ‘Senior School Prize Giving Function’ of Bishop Cotton Boy’s School here, Margaret Alva said, “Recently, Ramya had to face several cases for her ‘Pakistan is not hell’ comment. It is unbelievable that a country which guarantees freedom of expression, now has no liberty to express one’s views. I have visited Pakistan more than five times and made good friends there. There was nothing wrong in saying that Pakistan is not hell.”
Alva, who recently criticised the Congress leadership in her tell-all book, said students should have courage to say what is right and wrong. “A section of people in society cannot define the patriotism of an Indian citizen. Educational institutions can play a vital role in bringing up patriotic and dedicated Indians who are committed to the welfare of the society.,” she said.
“When I was in school, teachers used to tell us to just listen, not ask questions. But I believe leadership qualities grow when you ask questions. Students should also question the injustice and exploitation in the country,” she said.
Citing the protests at JNU, Alva said views of youth in the country are being suppressed.
Dr P K Samuel, Bishop of CSI Karnataka Central Diocese and chairman (board of management), Vice Chairman Reginald Jagadish and Principal Prof John K Zachariah were present.