Is Fanaticism Creating Communal Divisions in India?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sanjay Raut accuses BJP of religious fanaticism.
- Communal divisions threaten India's independence.
- Swadeshi slogan was pioneered by the Congress party.
- Critique of PM Modi's foreign policy and leadership.
- Call for direct confrontation with global threats.
Nashik, Aug 15 (NationPress) Shiv Sena(UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Friday accused the BJP of making the country 'fanatical' about religion since it assumed power in 2014, asserting that this is fostering communal divisions, which poses a significant threat to the nation's independence.
Raut also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his advocacy of Swadeshi and self-reliance, reminding him that the Swadeshi slogan was introduced by the Congress party.
The Shiv Sena(UBT) leader addressed reporters following PM Modi's Independence Day address from the Red Fort, discussing various topics, including Operation Sindoor, the Indus Water Treaty, Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, and Swadeshi.
Raut contended that when PM Modi questions what the Congress party has contributed, he must recognize that the Swadeshi slogan originated from the Congress party. “Mahatma Gandhi, Lokmanya Tilak, and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru were the ones behind it. This is why Khadi and the Gandhi cap emerged in our country. One day, Narendra Modi might even deliver a speech donning a Gandhi cap. It seems he has transformed into a Congressman, a Nehruvian, and a Gandhian,” he asserted.
Regarding PM Modi's implicit warning to the US and Pakistan, Raut remarked that Modi does not name anyone directly, indicating a lack of courage. “PM Modi should explicitly mention US President Trump (following his retaliatory tariffs) or Pakistan. He needs to name the enemy. Trump constantly threatens and insults our nation. Why does Modi hesitate to mention him by name?” he questioned. He added that instead of blaming former PM Jawaharlal Nehru, a key architect of India’s progress, PM Modi should directly address the US, China, and Pakistan.
“It is simple to issue threats to Pakistan. But China backs Pakistan. PM Modi must remember that Trump supports General Munir. He should not deliver empty speeches from the Red Fort. Pakistan's Army Chief Munir is a threat to us. Trump hosted Munir for dinner at the White House. Did Trump invite our Army Chief? PM Modi must confront Trump. Merely warning Pakistan is insufficient; he must also address China,” Raut emphasized.
He criticized numerous policies of the Modi administration, alleging that the country has regressed since 2014. He condemned the government's foreign policy, stating that it is easy to blame Pakistan.