BJP MP Sambit Patra has strongly criticized Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge’s recent remarks on the Mahakumbh, calling them an attack on Sanatan Dharma and demanding an apology from Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi. Patra’s statement came in response to Kharge’s comments questioning the socio-economic impact of religious practices such as taking a holy dip in the river Ganga.
Addressing the media, Patra said, "While the whole world is talking about the Mahakumbh, India's biggest Opposition party is negating it. Crores of people are pained to hear the statement made by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, where he asked if poverty would be eliminated or people would gain employment by taking a holy dip in the Ganga."
Sambit Patra Condemns Congress President’s Statement on Mahakumbh, Calls It ‘Anti-Sanatan’
Patra further alleged that Kharge’s comments were disrespectful to Sanatan Dharma and questioned whether the Congress leadership, including Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, would dare to make similar remarks about other religions. "Such statements against Sanatan Dharma are shameful," he said, adding that the Congress must clarify its stance on the matter.
BJP Slams Congress Over Mahakumbh Remarks, Demands Apology from Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi
The BJP leader also demanded an explanation from Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi regarding what he termed as the Congress party’s "anti-Sanatan thinking." Patra urged them to apologise to every individual who has faith in Sanatan Dharma and to the entire nation.
The Mahakumbh, one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world, is deeply significant to millions of devotees. The BJP has emphasized its cultural and religious importance, condemning any attempts to undermine its sanctity.
Patra’s remarks underline the growing tensions between the BJP and Congress over matters of faith and tradition, with the Mahakumbh at the center of the latest controversy. The BJP’s call for an apology seeks to address the sentiments of those who revere Sanatan Dharma and its practices.