Arvind Kejriwal's 'Raavan as Golden Deer' Statement Sparks AAP-BJP Tensions

New Delhi, Jan 21 (NationPress) With merely a fortnight remaining before the Delhi Assembly elections, the governing AAP and the opposition BJP are seizing every opportunity to escalate their confrontations. The most recent point of contention is AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal's comment regarding the 'Raavan as golden deer', which the BJP contends is a disrespectful reference to the Hindu epic and Sanatan Dharma.

During a recent election rally, Kejriwal referred to a story from the Ramayana wherein he alleged that Raavan disguised himself as a golden deer to abduct Sita. The BJP criticized his 'incorrect' statements about the Hindu epic, accusing him of disrespecting the Ramcharitmanas for electoral gain.

In his address, Kejriwal stated, "Lord Ram ventured into the forest to procure food, instructing Lakshman to look after Sita. It was then that Raavan appeared in the form of a golden deer."

While recounting this Ramayana episode, Kejriwal urged voters not to be fooled by the BJP and asserted that 'BJP leaders were akin to that golden deer'.

In response, BJP leaders expressed strong disapproval of Kejriwal's comments, accusing him of 'manipulating' the Ramcharitmanas for political leverage. A contingent of party workers also gathered outside Kejriwal's residence to protest his derogatory statements.

Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva criticized Kejriwal, labeling him a 'poll Hindu'. He remarked that Kejriwal's fixation with gold persists despite leaving the 'Sheesh Mahal', and asserted that his insulting comments reflect a lack of respect for the Ramayana.

“Kejriwal claimed that Raavan came disguised as a golden deer. When did that occur? We will not permit him to belittle the Ramcharitmanas,” he told reporters, noting that he was fasting in protest. He demanded an apology from Kejriwal for his offensive remarks.

AAP leaders, including Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia, retaliated against the BJP, questioning their purported 'affection' for Raavan.

Speaking to the press, Kejriwal remarked, "BJP members are gathered outside my house because I insulted Raavan. They hold Raavan in such high regard. I caution the people of Delhi that if these individuals come, they will consume you like demons."

According to the Ramayana, Kejriwal's assertions about Raavan disguising as a golden deer are incorrect.

In the Ramcharitmanas, it states, “It was Maricha, a demon who transformed into a golden deer. Upon seeing it, Sita was so captivated that she requested Lord Ram to capture it for her. When Ram took longer than expected, she sent Lakshman to find him. With both Ram and Lakshman absent, Raavan seized the opportunity and abducted Sita.”