Paromita Das
New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again taken a firm stand against what he describes as the systematic ridicule and targeting of Hindutav by certain opposition leaders. Speaking at a public event in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, after laying the foundation stone for the Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Institute for Cancer, PM Modi accused a section of politicians of consistently mocking Hindu beliefs, traditions, and religious practices. His remarks come amidst growing political tension over comments made by opposition leaders on Hindu festivals, traditions, and the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj.
PM Modi’s speech was not just a defense of Hindutav but also a direct critique of the opposition’s alleged appeasement politics and foreign influence in shaping divisive narratives. He asserted that Hindutav has been a target of ideological and political attacks for centuries, but the resilience of its followers has ensured that it remains a guiding force in Bharatiya civilization.
#WATCH | Chhattarpur, Madhya Pradesh | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "Nowadays we see that there is a group of leaders who mock religion, ridicule it, are engaged in dividing people and many times foreign powers also try to weaken the country and religion by supporting these… pic.twitter.com/afDz29eMUx
— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2025
Opposition Leaders and Their Controversial Remarks on Hindu Traditions
The Prime Minister’s remarks were particularly significant in the wake of recent controversies where opposition leaders have openly criticized Hindu traditions and practices. A major flashpoint has been the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, which saw an unprecedented turnout of devotees but also faced tragic incidents, including a stampede that led to loss of lives.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee sparked outrage when she referred to the Maha Kumbh Mela as “Mrityu Kumbh” (Kumbh of deaths), suggesting that the event had turned into a symbol of mismanagement and tragedy. She accused the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government of prioritizing VIPs over the common devotees, alleging that while the wealthy could afford exclusive tents, the poor were left without basic facilities.
Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan further fueled the controversy by questioning the official figures of devotees at the Kumbh and claiming that bodies of stampede victims had been thrown into the Ganga River. Similarly, SP MP Ram Gopal Yadav made an even more alarming statement, alleging that “thousands were killed” in the stampede and that the administration had buried victims or disposed of their bodies to downplay the actual death toll.
These statements have been met with widespread criticism from Hindu religious groups, BJP leaders, and devotees, who view them as part of a broader pattern of disrespect towards Hindu traditions.
PM Modi Calls Out Opposition’s ‘Slave Mentality’ and Attacks on Hindutav
Taking on his critics, PM Modi did not mince words in accusing opposition leaders of suffering from a “slave mentality” that compels them to look down upon Hindutav. He argued that such politicians have a history of belittling Hindu customs, saints, and temples, often under the guise of progressivism or secularism.
“These people suffering from a slave mentality have been attacking our faith, beliefs, and temples; our saints, culture, and principles. They abuse our festivals, traditions, and customs,” he said.
Modi asserted that Hindutav, by its very nature, is a progressive and evolving faith. Yet, he lamented that certain political factions selectively target it while ignoring regressive practices in other religions. His comments resonated with many who believe that Hindutav is often unfairly scrutinized in political discourse, while other faiths are given greater leeway in matters of tradition and reform.
Hindutav and Foreign Influence: Modi’s Warning Against External Meddling
A crucial aspect of PM Modi’s speech was his assertion that foreign powers often use anti-Hindu politicians as tools to weaken Bharat. While he did not name any specific country or organization, his remarks were widely interpreted as a reference to global leftist networks, NGOs, and media entities that have been accused of funding or supporting narratives critical of Hindutav and the Modi government.
“Many times, foreign powers are seen taking support of such people to weaken the country,” he stated, implying that some opposition leaders act as unwitting agents of external forces looking to destabilize Bharat from within.
His statement aligns with recent concerns raised by BJP leaders about foreign-funded NGOs influencing Bharat’s political landscape, particularly those that oppose projects related to temple restoration, cultural heritage, and nationalist movements.
PM Modi’s Praise for Pandit Dhirendra Shastri and Bageshwar Dham’s Contribution
During his address, PM Modi also took a moment to praise Pandit Dhirendra Shastri of Bageshwar Dham, referring to him as his “younger brother” and commending his efforts in promoting social unity. Shastri has been a vocal advocate of Hindu values and has garnered a significant following for his discourses on spirituality and nationalism.
PM Modi expressed his pleasure over the establishment of the Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Institute for Cancer, an initiative that aims to provide advanced medical care while integrating traditional healing practices. He emphasized that Bageshwar Dham will now offer not just spiritual solace but also healthcare facilities, ensuring that devotees and citizens alike benefit from scientific advancements.
“Here, in Bageshwar Dham, people will now be blessed with prayers, food, and a disease-free life,” he remarked, signifying the confluence of faith and modern medical science.
The Broader Political Implications of Modi’s Attack on the Opposition
PM Modi’s strong defense of Hindutav and his attack on opposition leaders serve multiple political purposes. First, it consolidates his support among Hindu voters, who form the BJP’s core base. By positioning himself as a protector of Hindu values, Modi reinforces the party’s commitment to cultural nationalism.
Second, it exposes the ideological contradictions of the opposition. While opposition parties often champion secularism, their repeated targeting of Hindu traditions creates an impression that they are biased against the majority faith. Modi’s remarks bring this hypocrisy into sharp focus, making it difficult for opposition leaders to justify their comments without alienating Hindu voters.
Lastly, it underscores the growing polarization in Bharatiya politics, where religious identity plays an increasingly central role. As Bharat approaches another crucial election cycle, the battle over cultural and religious narratives will only intensify, with both sides seeking to mobilize their respective bases.
Conclusion: Faith, Politics, and the Continuing Debate
PM Modi’s latest speech has once again ignited a national conversation on the intersection of faith and politics. His scathing critique of opposition leaders for mocking Hindutav highlights a broader concern among many Bharatiya—that Hindu traditions are often treated unfairly in political discourse.
The remarks from opposition leaders, particularly regarding the Maha Kumbh Mela, have only added fuel to the fire. While criticism of governance and infrastructure failures is legitimate, the perception that some leaders are using these tragedies to undermine Hindutav itself has led to backlash.
As Bharat moves forward, the debate over religious identity, secularism, and political strategy will continue to shape its socio-political landscape. What remains clear is that Modi’s strong advocacy for Hindu values has cemented his image as a defender of cultural heritage, and his confrontation with the opposition on this issue is far from over. The upcoming elections will likely see this battle intensify, as both sides seek to define the nation’s identity and future trajectory.
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