Did BJP and JD(U) Slam Telangana CM Reddy for His Remarks on Hindu Deities?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Revanth Reddy's comments have sparked significant political controversy.
- The BJP and JD(U) have strongly condemned his remarks.
- There are mixed reactions within Congress regarding the statement.
- This incident highlights the sensitivity of religious discourse in politics.
- The political fallout may influence future electoral dynamics in Telangana.
New Delhi, Dec 3 (NationPress) Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has caused a political uproar with his humorous comment implying that Hindus have “a deity for every occasion.” This statement has evoked strong backlash, with both the BJP and JD(U) accusing him of disrespecting Hinduism. They further asserted that such remarks could only originate from someone linked to the lineage of Aurangzeb.
Union Minister Prahlad Joshi remarked, “Insulting Hinduism and showing disregard for Hindu beliefs has become a routine for Congress and its allied parties. Whether in Karnataka, Kerala, or now Telangana, the Chief Ministers seem to favor just one community. These leaders have become overly sensitive to others while mocking Hindus and their beliefs. This pattern is troubling.”
Union Minister Giriraj Singh also criticized Reddy's comment, stating, “Only someone connected to the lineage of Aurangzeb would use such language.”
JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar expressed, “As Chief Minister, Revanth Reddy's remark is regrettable. No one should make comments about the deities of any religion. It is essential for the constituent parties of the INDIA bloc to clarify their stance on this.”
BJP MP Sambit Patra condemned the statement, asserting, “Whether it is Maulana Madani or the Congress Party, both seem to share the same tone today. I strongly condemn the Congress for the objectionable language used by the Telangana Chief Minister regarding Hindu deities, which reflects deep-seated contempt for Hindus. Reddy’s comments about three crore Hindu deities—different gods for various lifestyles—are unacceptable.”
In contrast, reactions within Congress varied. Congress MP Imran Masood remarked, “I’m not clear on what he said, but the choice of words should not hurt anyone’s sentiments.”
Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput stated, “Sanatan Dharma teaches that ‘Hari Anant, Hari Katha Ananta.’ With 33 crore deities, Sanatan Dharma is expansive and transcends a single scripture. Whether formally acknowledged or not, all are regarded as Sanatani. Reddy’s statement should be interpreted in a broader context.”
The controversy ignited after videos emerged online of Reddy’s address during a Congress executive meeting on December 2, leading the opposition to accuse him of hurting Hindu sentiments.
In the video, Reddy remarked, “How many deities are there in Hinduism? Three crores? Why? For unmarried individuals, there is Hanuman. For those who marry twice, there is another deity. For drinkers, another. Yellamma, Pochamma, Maisamma. For chicken eaters, a different god, and for those consuming dal-rice, another. There are deities for everything.”