Majority of India's Population Opposes 'Hindu Rashtra': Mani Shankar Aiyar

Synopsis
Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar highlights that more than two-thirds of the Indian population opposes the push for a 'Hindu Rashtra' and emphasizes the importance of harmony and brotherhood among all communities.
Key Takeaways
- Majority of citizens reject divisive politics
- India is a land of diversity and harmony
- Celebration of Eid fosters unity
- Warning against communal extremism
- Aiyar’s remarks on Rajiv Gandhi stir controversy
New Delhi, March 31 (NationPress) Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar stated that there is a systematic effort to foster animosity and disrupt the peaceful environment in the nation, seemingly at the direction of those in authority. However, such strategies are unlikely to prevail as the vast majority of the populace does not endorse these divisive political tactics.
Aiyar, during a conversation with IANS, remarked: "Over two-thirds of the Hindustanis (countrymen) do not back the political forces attempting to cultivate a hostile atmosphere towards minorities and transform the nation into a Hindu Rashtra."
He added, "Of this two-thirds, 50 percent are Hindus."
He emphasized that India is a land of diversity, where individuals of all religions coexist with strong ties of brotherhood and harmony.
The Congress leader also conveyed Eid wishes to Muslims worldwide, including those in Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Europe.
"India is a secular nation. On Eid, I want to extend my greetings to all my Muslim brothers and the Muslim community in the country," he stated.
He reiterated that India promotes equality and the coexistence of various communities, including a wide range of minorities. He urged fellow citizens to celebrate the festival with complete religious enthusiasm and cautioned them against succumbing to communal rhetoric from extremists and fanatics.
Mani Shankar Aiyar, who has recently faced scrutiny due to his provocative remarks, made headlines again when he revealed some sensational details about former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
"Everyone is aware of Indira Gandhi. When Rajiv Gandhi ascended to the Prime Minister position, it shocked everyone, including me. He failed twice at university, first at Cambridge University and then at Imperial College in London," Aiyar remarked in an interview with a YouTube channel.