Is the Use of ‘Bhagwa Atankwad’ Justified? Insights from Digvijaya Singh’s Son
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Synopsis
Jaivardhan Singh, son of former Madhya Pradesh CM Digvijaya Singh, argues against the term 'Bhagwa Atankwad' and expresses that supporters of Nathuram Godse have no place in society. His comments follow the acquittal of Pragya Singh Thakur in a high-profile case.
Key Takeaways
- Jaivardhan Singh criticizes the term 'Bhagwa Atankwad'.
- He stresses the unacceptability of Godse supporters in society.
- The recent acquittal of Pragya Singh Thakur has reignited discussions on extremism.
- Digvijaya Singh's political history remains influential in these discussions.
- The Malegaon blast case continues to impact political narratives in India.
Bhopal, July 31 (NationPress) Jaivardhan Singh, the son of former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh, asserted on Thursday that the use of terms such as “Bhagwa Atankwad” is inappropriate. He emphasized that there is no room for those who endorse Mahatma Gandhi's assassin, Nathuram Godse.
Jaivardhan Singh, an MLA representing the family stronghold of Raghogarh in Rajgarh district, made these comments in light of the recent acquittal of former BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur and six others in the Malegaon blast case that dates back 17 years, which resulted in six fatalities in 2008.
“I personally believe that using the term 'Bhagwa' is entirely wrong. While I haven’t reviewed the court's decision yet, I am open to welcoming the verdict,” stated Jaivardhan Singh.
He added that while Pragya Singh Thakur may have been acquitted in the Malegaon blast case, a civil society would not accept her due to her support for Mahatma Gandhi's assassin, Nathuram Godse.
“Pragya Singh has praised Nathuram Godse on multiple occasions; hence, even with her acquittal, she will not be accepted by us or by any civil society,” Jaivardhan further explained.
When reporters reminded him of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's prior admonitions towards Pragya Singh Thakur regarding her disparaging comments about Mahatma Gandhi, along with her denial of a Lok Sabha ticket from Bhopal in 2024, Jaivardhan responded, “Then I would also request BJP associates to cease their support for her (Pragya Thakur).”
Importantly, Pragya Singh Thakur had previously won the Lok Sabha seat from Bhopal in 2019 against veteran Congress leader Digvijaya Singh.
Digvijaya Singh was among several Congress figures who used terms like 'Bhagwa Atankwad' and referenced the “RSS bomb-making factory” following the Malegaon blast when Thakur was arrested.
During the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Bhopal, the BJP portrayed Digvijaya Singh as anti-Hindu due to his remarks about “Bhagwa Atankwad”, while Pragya Singh Thakur, despite being an accused, won the election.
In 2024, however, the BJP distanced itself from Thakur, choosing instead to nominate Alok Sharma following her ongoing controversial statements about Mahatma Gandhi.
Digvijaya Singh contested the Lok Sabha from his home district, Rajgarh, but faced defeat again.
The Mumbai court recently acquitted all seven accused in the Malegaon blast case, including Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt. Colonel Prasad Shrikant Purohit, due to insufficient evidence concerning charges filed under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Arms Act, and various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the complexities surrounding the discourse on political terminology and historical figures. The statements made by Jaivardhan Singh reflect a broader societal concern regarding accountability and the legacy of those who have committed acts of violence in India's history.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Jaivardhan Singh say about 'Bhagwa Atankwad'?
Jaivardhan Singh criticized the term 'Bhagwa Atankwad', stating it is wrong and emphasizes that civil society should not accept supporters of Nathuram Godse.
Who is Pragya Singh Thakur?
Pragya Singh Thakur is a former BJP MP who was recently acquitted in the Malegaon blast case, which took place in 2008.
What was the reaction to the court's verdict?
Jaivardhan Singh welcomed the court's verdict but reiterated that support for Nathuram Godse is unacceptable in a civilized society.
What does the term 'Bhagwa Atankwad' refer to?
The term 'Bhagwa Atankwad' is used to describe alleged Hindu extremism and has been a point of contention in Indian politics.
What is the significance of the Malegaon blast case?
The Malegaon blast case involved a terrorist attack in 2008 that resulted in the deaths of six people, making it a significant event in discussions about terrorism and communal violence in India.
