Bhopal, May 13 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Rameshwar Sharma on Wednesday hit out at Tamil Nadu Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin over his remarks on Sanatan Dharma, alleging that such statements reflect an aversion towards the belief system and are aimed at political polarisation.
Speaking to IANS in Bhopal, the Huzur MLA said criticism of Sanatan Dharma would not affect its strength. He alleged that Stalin, the Congress, and others “always seem to have an aversion” to Sanatan Dharma and are acting as “puppets of extremist elements”.
“Whether it is Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Indian National Congress, or others, they always seem to have an aversion to Sanatan Dharma and are being described as puppets of extremist elements,” Sharma said.
He added that such political attacks would be ineffective. “They are active in politics, but it is being said that their criticism and abuse of Sanatan Dharma will not have any impact on its strength or existence,” Sharma said.
Sharma’s remarks came amid renewed political debate over Stalin’s earlier comments on Sanatan Dharma, which had drawn sharp reactions from BJP leaders across states. The BJP has repeatedly accused opposition leaders of targeting Hindu traditions for political gain.
The MLA argued that Sanatan Dharma has survived centuries of challenges and cannot be weakened by statements from political figures. He alleged that leaders making such remarks are attempting to polarize voters, but said the public understands their intent.
“Sanatan Dharma is not tied to any party or person. It is the culture and faith of crores of people. Those who abuse it for votes are only exposing themselves,” Sharma told IANS.
He claimed that parties criticizing Sanatan Dharma are isolated from the country’s cultural roots and are working under the influence of “extremist elements” to create divisions. Sharma also targeted the Congress, clubbing it with Stalin over what he called a pattern of “aversion” to Sanatan Dharma.
He said leaders should focus on development instead of making statements that hurt religious sentiments.
The BJP in Madhya Pradesh has frequently raised Sanatan Dharma as a campaign issue, especially ahead of elections.
–IANS
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