BJP Criticizes Congress Over Mallikarjun Kharge’s Statement on Mahakumbh, Labels It a New Muslim League
New Delhi, January 27 A fresh political controversy has erupted following Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge’s remarks on the significance of the Mahakumbh. His statement, made during the “Jai Samvidhan” rally in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, has provoked sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused the Congress party of harboring anti-Hindu sentiments and likened it to a “New Muslim League.”
In this article, we delve into the details of the controversy, the political reactions, and the broader implications of Kharge’s statement.
What Did Mallikarjun Kharge Say About Mahakumbh?
During the rally, Kharge questioned the BJP’s emphasis on rituals such as taking a dip in the Ganga during the Mahakumbh. He asked, “Will poverty be eradicated by bathing in the Ganga? BJP leaders are competing to appear on camera while performing these rituals.” While he maintained that his remarks were not intended to hurt anyone’s religious sentiments, they triggered significant backlash.
Kharge also highlighted his concerns about the government’s focus on optics rather than addressing pressing issues like poverty, unemployment, and inflation. However, his comments about the Ganga, a sacred river for Hindus, were seen as insensitive by many.
BJP’s Fierce Response: Allegations of Anti-Hindu Sentiments
The BJP wasted no time in launching a scathing attack on the Congress party and its leadership. Prominent BJP leaders, including IT Cell Head Amit Malviya and Member of Parliament Sambit Patra, took to public forums to voice their objections.
Amit Malviya’s Accusation
Amit Malviya accused the Congress of disrespecting Hindu beliefs. “Why does the Congress harbor so much hatred for Hindus? The Mahakumbh is a once-in-144-years event, yet Congress leaders criticize it with such disdain. First, Congress leader Husain Dalwai spoke ill of the Kumbh, and now Kharge has done the same. Congress has become the ‘New Muslim League,’ a malignancy to India’s unity,” Malviya stated.
Sambit Patra’s Remarks
Echoing Malviya, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra expressed disappointment at Kharge’s comments, emphasizing their potential to hurt millions of Hindus globally. He questioned whether Congress leaders would dare to make similar remarks about any other religion. “The statements against Sanatan Dharma are a reflection of Congress’s anti-Hindu mindset. Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi must apologize to the nation for their party’s disrespectful rhetoric,” Patra asserted.
The Historical and Cultural Significance of Mahakumbh
The Mahakumbh is a deeply revered event in Hinduism, occurring once every 12 years at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj. This grand pilgrimage attracts millions of devotees from across the globe, who believe that bathing in the holy waters cleanses one’s sins and paves the way for spiritual liberation.
The BJP has used the Mahakumbh as a symbol of India’s cultural heritage, often promoting it as a unifying force that transcends caste, creed, and regional barriers. Kharge’s remarks, therefore, struck a particularly sensitive chord, as they were perceived to undermine this unity.
Political Implications of the Controversy
The BJP’s criticism of Kharge is not just a reaction to his comments but also part of a broader strategy to portray the Congress as being out of touch with India’s cultural ethos. Here are some key implications:
- Polarization of Voter Sentiments
The BJP’s narrative positions itself as the custodian of Hindu traditions, aiming to consolidate its support base among religious voters. By labeling Congress as the “New Muslim League,” the BJP is attempting to alienate Hindu voters from the opposition party. - Challenges for Congress
Congress faces the dual challenge of countering the BJP’s allegations while clarifying its stance on religious inclusivity. Kharge’s clarification and conditional apology may not suffice to assuage the sentiments of those offended. - Impact on Upcoming Elections
With assembly elections in several states and the 2024 general elections on the horizon, the controversy is likely to influence political discourse. BJP will likely use this episode to question Congress’s commitment to respecting Indian traditions.
Kharge’s Defense and Attempt at Damage Control
Following the backlash, Kharge clarified that his remarks were not intended to offend anyone’s religious beliefs. “If my comments have hurt anyone’s sentiments, I apologize,” he said. However, his apology was accompanied by criticism of the BJP’s governance, accusing them of using religion as a distraction from economic and social issues.
Kharge also emphasized the need to focus on constitutional values and social justice, reiterating the message of the “Jai Samvidhan” rally.
