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M Kharge Questions Ganga Dips During Mahakumbh, BJP Responds
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, at the ‘Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan’ rally in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, criticized BJP leaders for their publicized Ganga dips during the Mahakumbh, questioning whether these acts could alleviate poverty or solve the country’s pressing issues.
Kharge’s Remarks
Speaking at the rally attended by Rahul Gandhi, Kharge said BJP leaders prioritize optics over addressing critical issues like hunger, education, and labor rights. While emphasizing that he does not question anyone’s faith, he expressed concerns about the exploitation of religion for political gains.
“Our faith is in God, and prayers at home are personal and respectful. But when poor people are being neglected, spending vast sums of money on such acts for photographs is not the solution,” Kharge remarked, referring to the ongoing Ganga dips.
BJP’s Response
The BJP, led by spokesperson Sambit Patra, condemned Kharge’s statements, accusing the Congress of disrespecting the faith of millions of Hindus. “Mahakumbh is a symbol of Sanatana Dharma, revered worldwide. Such remarks mock this tradition and hurt the sentiments of crores,” Patra said.
He challenged Congress leaders, including Sonia and Rahul Gandhi, to question similar practices in other religions, such as iftar parties, highlighting what he termed as Congress’s “anti-Sanatan mindset.”
Faith vs. Governance
The debate highlights the enduring tension between religious symbolism and governance. While BJP defends Mahakumbh as a cultural and spiritual event integral to Indian traditions, Congress raises concerns about prioritizing faith-based optics over tangible socio-economic reforms.
As the political battle heats up, the controversy underscores the sensitive interplay between religion and politics in India, with both parties leveraging faith to connect with their constituencies.