| 14 September 2023
In a fiery and passionate speech on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the Opposition, specifically targeting the "INDI Alliance," alleging that it posed a significant threat to 'Sanatana Dharma,' India's ancient spiritual and cultural tradition, as well as its citizens.
The controversy surrounding 'Sanatana Dharma' took center stage after Tamil Nadu minister and DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin made provocative comments, calling for the "eradication of Sanatana Dharma." This statement sparked outrage and raised concerns about religious tolerance in the country. In response, Prime Minister Modi declared that such remarks warranted a "proper response."
Speaking at a public rally in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar district, PM Modi not only referred to the Opposition bloc as the "INDI Alliance" but also labeled it the 'ghamandia' (arrogant) alliance, asserting that its ultimate goal was to dismantle the 'Sanatana Dharma.'
In his address, Prime Minister Modi asserted, "A few groups are working to divide the country and society... They have come together to form an INDI alliance. They have also decided on a hidden agenda to attack India's culture. The INDI alliance has come with a resolution to end 'Sanatan' culture." He criticized the alliance for their alleged intent to destroy the Sanatana tradition, which he contended has been a source of inspiration for many. He argued that the call for the "eradication of Sanatana Dharma" had crossed a line and should not be left unchallenged.
Prime Minister Modi cautioned, "Today, they have openly started targeting Sanatana, tomorrow they will increase the attacks on us. All 'Sanatanis' across the country and the people who love our country will have to be alert. We will have to stop such people."
This controversy began earlier this month when Udhayanidhi Stalin likened Sanatana Dharma to diseases like malaria and dengue. In response, the BJP intensified its criticism of the INDIA alliance, a coalition of 28 opposition parties. The comments continued to escalate when the DMK’s Lok Sabha MP, A Raja, compared Sanatana Dharma to diseases like leprosy and HIV. These remarks led the BJP to accuse opposition leaders of harboring "deep-rooted Hinduphobia."
Joining the discourse, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that Sanatana Dharma is the "Rashtriya" (national) religion of Bharat (India) and cannot be erased by those driven by a thirst for power. He expressed his dismay that some individuals in India were consistently denigrating Sanatana Dharma and attacking the country's values and principles.
As the controversy continued to escalate, a case was registered against Udhayanidhi Stalin in Maharashtra’s Thane following a complaint regarding his remarks on Sanatana Dharma. The complainant alleged that Stalin's comments had hurt the sentiments and religious feelings of those who follow Sanatana Dharma.
The debate over 'Sanatana Dharma' and its place in contemporary Indian society continues to be a contentious and polarizing issue. Prime Minister Modi's strong condemnation of the Opposition's alleged threats to this ancient tradition underscores the significance of religious tolerance and cultural diversity in India's evolving political landscape.
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