New Delhi: Amid the growing uproar over DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's controversial remarks regarding Sanatan Dharma, the Congress party has come forward asserting that every political party possesses the freedom to express its views and opinions.
The comments made by Udhayanidhi Stalin, which called for the eradication of Sanatan Dharma, have sparked criticism from the BJP, who accused the Opposition's INDIA alliance of insulting India's culture.
Addressing the matter at a party briefing held at the AICC headquarters, Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal emphasized the Congress' commitment to the principle of 'Sarva Dharma Samabhava,' which signifies respect for all religions.
Karnataka Congress Minister Priyank Kharge, based in Bengaluru, made a strong statement, stating, "Any religion that does not treat people with equality is as good as a disease."
However, the BJP has taken a more confrontational stance, demanding a response from Congress MP Rahul Gandhi over Udhayanidhi Stalin's remarks. Senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad questioned Gandhi's silence on the issue, pointing out that it amounted to an open insult to Sanatan Dharma by Congress' allies.
He questioned Gandhi's temple visits, suggesting that they might be mere pretence if he did not address such issues.
Prasad further criticized the INDIA alliance, labelling it a 'ghamandiya' alliance, referring to its perceived arrogance. He claimed that politicians like Nitish Kumar, Tejashwi Yadav, and Mamata Banerjee, who participate in religious rituals and visit temples, could adopt anti-Hindu stances for political gains, which he considered a matter of concern.
Udhayanidhi Stalin, in response to the BJP's criticism, stated that he is prepared to face any legal consequences arising from his comments. He accused the BJP of spreading fake news and clarified that his remarks were not a call for genocide, as suggested by a party spokesperson.