VHP Spokesperson Challenges Farooq Abdullah to Confront Pakistan on Terrorism

New Delhi, November 13 (Daily Kiran) : Vinod Bansal, the national spokesperson for the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), has responded sharply to recent statements made by political figures including Farooq Abdullah and Akhilesh Yadav. Bansal criticized Abdullah’s remarks regarding Pakistan, asserting that leaders must speak responsibly on issues linked to religious faith and national interest. He also expressed support for the Indian government’s decision to extend the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF).

Bansal accused Abdullah of inappropriately showing repeated support for Pakistan, especially in light of terrorist activities in the Kashmir Valley and surrounding areas. He stated that instead of defending Pakistan, Abdullah should demand an end to terrorism emanating from there. “Abdullah should clearly tell Pakistan to stop promoting terrorism and sending terrorists into India,” Bansal remarked.

He warned that if Pakistan does not halt its terrorist activities, India’s response could be severe. Bansal emphasized that Abdullah has received much from the country and should prioritize national interests.

Commenting on Akhilesh Yadav’s statement about visiting Ayodhya, Bansal raised concerns over the frequent changes in Yadav’s plans. Initially, Yadav had indicated he would visit Ayodhya on November 12, then changed it to December 6, and later to December 12, before suggesting he would go when he felt inclined. Bansal questioned why Yadav needed to repeatedly announce his intentions regarding the pilgrimage, suggesting it was a ploy for political gain. “If someone wants to visit Ayodhya, they should go. But changing statements about Lord Ram and his birthplace is not appropriate,” he said.

He also criticized the Congress, DMK, and RJD, alleging that their leaders have previously made statements that hurt Hindu sentiments. Bansal referenced controversial remarks concerning the Ram Setu and Lord Ram, urging political parties to be sensitive to religious beliefs.

Regarding comments made by SP MP SP Singh Patel about Durga Puja and the Kanwar Yatra, Bansal noted that while the faces of SP leaders change, their attitude towards Hindu beliefs remains unchanged. He accused them of consistently making offensive statements about Hindu traditions. Bansal asserted that if an individual does not share a religious belief, they should refrain from participating in related events, but should not comment on others’ faiths. He questioned whether similar remarks would be tolerated regarding events of other religions, insisting that all faiths deserve respect.

Bansal supported the government’s decision to extend the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation, stating that allowing organizations linked to terrorist activities to operate is not in the nation’s or society’s best interests. He suggested that the government has taken a necessary step and that vigilance is required regarding other organizations that may warrant similar scrutiny. He concluded by urging society to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.