Political Interference Should Not Mar Chhath Puja Celebrations, Says Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti

Kanpur Dehat, November 14 (Daily Kiran) : Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, chair of the National Commission for Backward Classes, addressed several pressing issues during a recent event in Kanpur Dehat. She responded to allegations against the BJP from Raj Thackeray regarding Chhath Puja celebrations in Mumbai, as well as Rahul Gandhi’s claims of phone tapping and the extension of a ban on Zakir Naik’s Islamic Research Foundation (IRF).

She stressed that political parties should not interfere in the celebration of festivals, asserting that everyone should have the freedom to observe their traditions. “Every state has its own festivals and customs. Chhath Puja, originally from Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh, is now celebrated nationwide, including by those living abroad,” she noted.

Sadhvi Jyoti urged political entities to refrain from meddling in such celebrations, emphasizing the importance of allowing people to celebrate their festivals according to their customs. She extended her best wishes for Chhath Puja, hoping that just as the sun dispels darkness, it would also illuminate people’s lives.

Addressing the allegations of phone tapping against the central government, she suggested that Rahul Gandhi should focus on his responsibilities as the leader of the opposition. “It’s not appropriate to make accusations on every issue,” she remarked, adding that Gandhi appears to be acting out of fear and frustration after electoral losses.

She defended the integrity of the electoral process, highlighting that the same electronic voting machines and election commission that helped Gandhi and his party win elections should not be questioned without substantial evidence. “If there were issues with the EVMs, his party would not have won seats,” she argued.

Sadhvi Jyoti also reminded Gandhi of the historical context of emergency periods in India, referencing the suppression of media and public rights during that time. She cited the 1984 riots and encouraged him to reflect on his family’s past statements.

Regarding the IRF’s ban, she asserted that organizations involved in anti-national activities deserve strict action. “It’s not enough to merely accuse such groups; they should face permanent bans,” she stated.

She praised Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for their efforts against Naxalism and terrorism, claiming significant improvements in security across the nation. “People in affected areas should be asked about the changes they have witnessed,” she suggested, referencing the deaths of key leaders at the hands of Naxalites in Chhattisgarh.

Sadhvi Jyoti commended Modi’s leadership for enhancing India’s global stature, pointing out improvements in infrastructure and public services. “Electricity has reached homes that previously had none, and roads have been built in areas that lacked them,” she noted. She concluded that while some may feel discomfort with these changes, they are a necessary part of progress.