New Delhi: Accusing the Tamil Nadu Government of "misusing" its machinery to tarnish the reputation of the ancient Kanchi Mutt by arresting Shankaracharya Jayendra Saraswati in a murder case, BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) today (Nov 30, 2004) asked the Centre to issue directions to the State to work in accordance with the Constitution.

Spotlight: Kanchi Jayendra Saraswathi's Arrest

Party General Secretary Sushma Swaraj, who met the Seer at the Vellore Jail yesterday (Nov 29, 2004), told reporters in New Delhi that the case has ceased to be a prosecution against an individual and has become a "State assault on a religious institution".

Swaraj said she had inquired from the Pontiff about news reports about his alleged confession to the police and he laughed it off and authorised her to tell the people that it was all wrong.

"This is a total lie. When I have not committed any crime, why should I confess," Swaraj said quoting the Seer.

She said the Pontiff was "very calm and composed" during the 30-minute meeting she had with him.

The senior BJP leader said it was not enough for the Prime Minister to send a letter to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister.

"It is the Centre's constitutional obligation to ensure that the State functions in accordance with the Constitution. If the State Government is misusing its machinery to tarnish the reputation of the highest institution of Hindus, then it is not working according to the Constitution".

"The Centre should not remain a mute spectator to this Tamasha. It should direct them under Articles 256 and 257 of the Constitution. This propaganda to malign the ancient Kanchi Mutt institution should be stopped", she demanded.