Ram Mandir’s inauguration exposing divisive politics within the Hindus led by the BJP: CM Karnataka
January 12, 2024In a recent statement, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) approach towards the Ram Mandir’s inauguration in Ayodhya, asserting that it is fostering division within the Hindu community. The Chief Minister’s remarks came in support of the Congress party’s decision to abstain from participating in the inauguration ceremony.
Siddaramaiah expressed concern over a controversial statement made by the Ram Mandir Trust Secretary, suggesting that there would be no representation for Shaivas and Shaktas in the temple. He deemed this as an insult to Shaiva devotees, further highlighting reports of four Shankaracharya peethas boycotting the inauguration, citing concerns about the misuse of the sacred space for political purposes.
Supporting the stance taken by AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury to refrain from attending the ceremony, Siddaramaiah argued that the decision was justified. He criticized Prime Minister Modi and the Sangh Parivar for allegedly transforming a religious event into a political campaign, asserting that it should have transcended religious boundaries and included all, thus accusing them of betraying Hindus.
Siddaramaiah accused the BJP and RSS leaders of hypocrisy, pointing out their silence on Modi inaugurating an incomplete temple. He suggested that the Congress party has consistently adhered to its stance on the Ram temple issue, emphasizing its commitment to accepting the court’s decision. Siddaramaiah noted that even Muslim communities have accepted the court’s verdict, showcasing faith in the judicial system.
The Chief Minister asserted that Modi, completing a decade in power, lacks confidence in presenting his achievements to the public. Instead, Siddaramaiah accused him of attempting to generate a Hindu wave by inaugurating the incomplete Ram Mandir ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, diverting attention from his perceived failures.
According to Siddaramaiah, people familiar with political maneuvers over the past three decades will not support the BJP and the Sangh Parivar, who, in his opinion, have exploited the name of Ram for political gains. He claimed that the public is increasingly demanding accountability for funds collected for the construction of the temple.
Therefore, Siddaramaiah clarified that his opposition is not against Hinduism but against the injection of religion into politics. He condemned blind rituals and beliefs and pledged to resist what he perceives as the BJP and Sangh Parivar’s “fake Hindutva,” expressing a willingness to face setbacks in politics for this cause.