New Delhi, Dec 22 (NationPress) The BJP publicly supported Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat's declaration of India as a 'Hindu Rashtra' and his remarks about what he called 'Islamic extremism' in West Bengal, resulting in intense political backlash from various parties.

During his speech on Sunday, Bhagwat insisted that India is fundamentally a 'Hindu nation' and claimed that no constitutional endorsement is necessary for this assertion, as it represents a 'truth'.

He also questioned the announcement by suspended Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir regarding the construction of a Babri Masjid-like mosque in West Bengal, accusing it of being a tactic to garner votes. Bhagwat emphasized that public funds should not be allocated for building places of worship.

Supporting Bhagwat's viewpoint concerning Bengal, BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo highlighted recent events in Murshidabad, where a similar announcement about a Babri Masjid was made.

In a statement to IANS, Deo remarked, 'The entire West Bengal government involved Maulanas in discussions, followed by a large gathering where the construction of the Babri Masjid was announced. This is solely a move by the Trinamool Congress to appease the Muslim community, which offends the Sanatanis. Although they suspended the MLA, there has been no arrest, indicating collusion between the government and the suspended MLA.'

He further claimed that the issue was intentionally raised with elections approaching.

'This is not a topic that should have been broached now, yet the Trinamool Congress has deliberately brought it up through one of its MLAs as the elections near. Therefore, the RSS chief's position is justified,' Deo added.

BJP MLA Ram Kadam also expressed his support for Bhagwat's remarks, highlighting the importance of Hindu unity.

Kadam stated to IANS, 'Our Sarsanghchalak's statement is accurate and sheds light on the truth. Mamata Banerjee and her supporters have caused distress, mistreatment, and oppression to our Hindus in West Bengal. They have invaded homes and committed offenses against women, and the people of Bengal are witnessing all of this.'

Kadam further alleged political motives behind the references to the Babri Masjid.

'Those who speak in the name of Babri are motivated purely by political gains. They are indifferent to the community and merely use excuses to exert control over a particular religion. If Hindus come together, no one will dare to engage in such deceitful actions that please Pakistan.'

Shiv Sena leader Manisha Kayande highlighted the need for Hindus to unite against emerging challenges.

'Given the nature of activities in our nation and the threats we face, Hindus must not divide themselves by caste but come together. Our party strongly believes in this stance,' she told IANS.

The Opposition, however, vehemently criticized Bhagwat's statements, asserting that India operates under the Constitution, not ideological assertions.

Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad questioned the basis of the 'Hindu Rashtra' claim.

Speaking to IANS, he said, 'I respectfully ask Mohan Bhagwat what kind of Hindu nation he envisions. Currently, the highest constitutional and administrative roles in our country are held by Hindus. The President, the Prime Minister, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court are all Hindus.'

Prasad noted that political leadership across parties is predominantly Hindu.

'Leaders from both the ruling and opposition parties, including the Samajwadi Party, are Hindus. Even the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh is Hindu. So, what criteria are they using to define who is Hindu and what constitutes a Hindu Rashtra?' he questioned.

He insisted Bhagwat clarify whether such a vision aligns with constitutional principles.

'Our nation operates through the Constitution, which grants equal rights to all communities as envisioned by Baba Saheb Ambedkar. Bhagwat should clarify whether he intends to adhere to the Constitution framed by Baba Saheb Ambedkar in his so-called Hindu Rashtra.'

Janata Unnayan Party founder Humayun Kabir also reacted to Bhagwat's comments, dismissing concerns about unrest.

Speaking to reporters, he stated, 'We respect Mohan Bhagwat, but his claim of potential riots is unfounded. We will not permit any such situation. When a Trinamool leader announced temple construction, there were no riots. Why would it be different now?'

Kabir further alleged links between the RSS and the Bengal government.

'Mohan Bhagwat requires the state government's approval to visit here. Since Mamata Banerjee has been supporting the RSS in the state, the number of their shakhas has surged from 558 to 12,000. In contrast, madrasas receive no support, leaving the Muslim community without benefits.'