Priyanka Gandhi Critiques BJP Leaders for Coercing Folk Singer Devi into a Public Apology
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Patna, Dec 27 (NationPress) Following the incident where folk singer Devi was pressured by BJP leaders to publicly apologize for singing Mahatma Gandhi's beloved bhajan, Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her outrage, condemning the BJP for its hypocrisy and intolerance.
She posted a video of the incident on social media, decrying the actions of the BJP.
"BJP leaders compelled folk singer Devi to apologize for performing Bapu's favorite bhajan. They present flowers to Bapu to project a virtuous image, yet they show a complete lack of respect for him," she stated.
Furthermore, she accused the BJP of undermining India's inclusive culture and the legacies of revered leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and B.R. Ambedkar.
"They invoke the name of B.R. Ambedkar merely for appearances, but in truth, they belittle him. The BJP despises our tolerant and inclusive traditions, repeatedly disrespecting our great figures," she added.
During a celebration for the 100th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, folk singer Devi sang the bhajan, which led to objections from BJP leaders.
As a result of their interference, Devi issued a public apology, expressing, "If I have offended anyone's sentiments, I sincerely apologize."
After delivering her apology, Devi exited the stage and left the venue.
The occurrence involving Bhojpuri folk singer Devi took place on December 25 at the Bapu Auditorium in Gandhi Maidan, Patna, during an event organized to honor the birth centenary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
On the previous Thursday, Rashtriya Janata Dal President Lalu Prasad Yadav criticized BJP leaders for allegedly compelling the prominent folk singer to apologize for singing Mahatma Gandhi's legendary bhajan.
"Yesterday (Wednesday) in Patna, when the singer performed Mahatma Gandhi's bhajan Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram, Patit Pavan Sita Ram, BJP members allied with Nitish Kumar created a disturbance. The bhajan offended the sentiments of those (tucche) who considered it beneath them. Folk singer Devi had to apologize for singing this bhajan," Yadav remarked.
