Shashi Tharoor defends Ayodhya idol post, affirms devotion to Lord Ram

New Delhi: Congress Working Committee member and MP, Shashi Tharoor, defended his social media post featuring an image of the Lord Ram idol in Ayodhya, accompanied by the message 'Siyavar Ram ki jai.'

Tharoor clarified that the intent behind the post was to express his devotion to Lord Ram and emphasised that not every 'Ram bhakt' supports the BJP. He asserted that secularism signifies pluralism, allowing individuals to profess their chosen religion.

Addressing reporters at the Government Law College after facing protests, Tharoor stated that he, like many others, is a devotee of Lord Ram. He clarified that visiting the Ayodhya temple in the future would be an expression of devotion without intending harm to anyone. Tharoor emphasised that secularism does not imply the absence of religion but encourages diversity in religious beliefs.

Responding to the criticism and protests, Tharoor expressed that the post should not be blown out of proportion. He explained that the message conveyed his devotion to Lord Ram and the deliberate omission of Sita when hailing Ram.

Tharoor questioned the assumption that every 'Ram bhakt' is a BJP supporter and stated that the Congress should not relinquish Lord Ram to the BJP. He argued that the BJP may seek the support of all 'Ram bhakts,' but it does not necessarily translate to support for the party. Tharoor reiterated that the Congress, too, can embrace and pray to God, emphasising the party's acceptance of religious beliefs.

Addressing the Ram Temple issue, Tharoor clarified that the opposition was not against the construction of the temple but against the associated event. He asserted that if he visits a temple, it is for religious purposes rather than political reasons, and any future visit to Ayodhya would be on his terms.

Tharoor highlighted his consistent stance that while every Hindu may desire a Ram Temple at Ayodhya, there was no need to demolish a mosque for its construction.