Ayodhya, June 7: A recent statement by Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, the head of Bageshwar Dham, regarding ‘Friendship Jihad’ has sparked a heated debate among the saint community. Reactions have varied, with some saints supporting his views and urging youth to remain vigilant, while others have criticized the statement as a source of societal discord and tension. Prominent saints from Ayodhya and Haridwar have shared their opinions on the matter.
Mahant Dr. Deveshacharya Maharaj from Ayodhya expressed disappointment, stating, “It is unfortunate that Bageshwar Baba, as a religious preacher, should not make such statements. The role of a religious leader is to promote peace in society, but it seems Bageshwar Baba is making controversial remarks just to stay in the limelight.” He suggested that if Dhirendra Shastri wishes to engage in political discourse, he should enter politics and contest elections with the BJP.
He further accused, “People like him incite others, and when incidents occur, they label them as ‘Friendship Jihad’ or ‘Love Jihad.’ This is very unfortunate for the country. There is a pressing need to curb such religious leaders.”
On the same issue, Arya Saint Varun Das Maharaj from Ayodhya remarked, “Muslims’ faith is based on the Quran and Jihad. Their belief is centered around Pakistan and bringing India under Sharia law. If they succeed in any way, it is solely for Islam. Dhirendra Shastri should also be cautious about this, especially since he travels to Dubai and other places.”
Conversely, Ayodhya’s Sitaram Das Maharaj openly supported Shastri’s statement, asserting that it aligns with his perspective. He noted that extremist ideologies are attempting to influence society in various ways and advised youth to remain alert against any form of temptation or ideological influence.
Meanwhile, Ravindra Puri, president of the Mahanirvani Akhara in Haridwar, praised Shastri for addressing such issues repeatedly. He stated, “It is the responsibility of religious leaders to guide society correctly. I urge the government and political leaders to convene a joint meeting of senior religious leaders from both faiths. Terms like ‘Land Jihad,’ ‘Love Jihad,’ and ‘Food Jihad’ are being used, and now the concept of ‘Friendship Jihad’ has emerged.”
Mahamandaleshwar Roopendra Prakash commented on Shastri’s statement, saying, “We support this, and certainly, with the emergence of terms like ‘Land Jihad,’ ‘Love Jihad,’ and ‘Food Jihad,’ the concept of ‘Friendship Jihad’ has also surfaced. The brutal murder in Ghaziabad on Eid has raised concerns among the entire Hindu community.”
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