Is It Difficult to Challenge PM Modi? Insights from Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Challenging PM Modi is difficult.
- Rahul Gandhi's attempts remain unyielding.
- Religious conversion processes need regulation.
- Honesty in award nominations is commendable.
- Artists should focus on their art, not politics.
Mumbai, July 12 (NationPress) Jagadguru Shankaracharya Maharaj Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati discussed numerous critical national, political, and global matters on Saturday.
On the topic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's standing in Indian politics, the Shankaracharya stated to IANS: "Challenging PM Modi is no simple task. Multiple individuals have attempted, yet none have succeeded in unsettling him. He remains steadfast in his position, and no one has succeeded in dislodging him from that role."
When queried about Rahul Gandhi's presence in national politics and his attempts to oppose PM Modi, he commented: "Indeed, Rahul Gandhi is making efforts to confront PM Modi. However, it is a formidable challenge. Despite ongoing attempts, PM Modi remains unwavering. He stands with resilience, and no one has been able to shift him from his position."
Discussing PM Modi's impact on the global platform, Swami Avimukteshwaranand noted: "Analyzing his influence in global politics is crucial. It is evident that he is the most dominant figure within his party. He sets the rules, and everyone is obliged to adhere to them. Even if we haven't experienced international politics firsthand, it is clear within the nation that no one in his party surpasses his power."
Commenting on the call for a Nobel Prize for Aam Aadmi Party leader and former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, he remarked:
"At least the individual who made the suggestion did so sincerely. Nowadays, many express opinions in whispers, but he voiced his thoughts openly — that requires bravery. Awards like these aren’t given arbitrarily — one must apply, gather endorsements, and even advocate at the governmental level. If someone openly acknowledges this effort, it reflects honesty. Others may pursue similar endeavors behind closed doors; at least this instance was brought to light."
In response to Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav's recent statements regarding Dhirendra Shastri, Swami Avimukteshwaranand remarked:
"If Akhilesh Yadav claims that funds are exchanged secretly, that may indeed occur — but we possess no concrete information. And let me inquire — which politician or party operates without accepting funds? Does Akhilesh Yadav or his party refrain from accepting donations? Every political entity collects contributions from the populace, yet there is no audit, nor does the public have the right to know the amounts collected and their sources. At least Baba Bageshwar was transparent about his receipts — that is a form of honesty too."
Addressing the issue of religious conversions in Uttar Pradesh, he stated:
"Religious conversion is a significant concern and should be addressed with seriousness. Deceptive conversion is a crime. After conversion, what precisely changes in an individual’s life? Has poverty been eliminated, have illnesses vanished, or have anxieties disappeared? If not, then what was the purpose? There should be a formal process for conversions, and prior notice must be provided to district authorities, with expert representation from both parties during discussions to ensure transparency and prevent deception."
On the recent shooting incident at comedian Kapil Sharma’s cafe in Canada, the Shankaracharya commented:
"This is all politically motivated. Artists should focus solely on their craft. When they forge connections with politicians and publicize them, the opposition finds reasons to target them. Such scenarios must be circumvented. A true artist should immerse themselves in their art and distance themselves from politics."