The contentious remark by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge regarding Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has now intensified the political and religious debates. Kharge made a contentious remark regarding Yogi Adityanath’s orange attire, prompting a strong response from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), its allies, and the religious community.
Mallikarjun Kharge stated regarding UP CM Yogi Adityanath and saints in Jharkhand that numerous saints have transitioned into politics, spreading animosity in society by donning saffron attire and attempting to create divisions among people. Mallikarjun Kharge’s statement has now led to a controversy, prompting strong reactions from both the BJP and the saint community. Mallikarjun is facing allegations of provoking religious feelings.
The BJP and its partners also criticized Kharge’s remarks. Uttar Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak referred to it as the outdated mindset of the Congress. He expressed that the Congress party’s history has consistently involved deception and fostering divisions within society. Congress has consistently shown a lack of respect for Hindu religion and Sanatan culture. Brajesh Pathak requested an immediate apology by likening the Congress party to Mughal invaders.
Cabinet Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar targeted the Congress as well. He mentioned that the Congress’s history involves acquiring power through the division of people. Congress has let down the backward, Dalit, and Muslim communities. During its time in power, this party neglected education, healthcare, sanitation, and the concerns of farmers. They simply seek to stay in the headlines by issuing unnecessary comments.
The Sant Samaj has responded vehemently to Kharge’s remarks. The General Secretary of All India Sant Samiti, Swami Jitendranand Saraswati, stated that Kharge’s remarks are petty and worthy of censure. He cautioned the Congress that if it continues to assault Hindu religion and Sanatan culture, the Sant Samaj will respond with strong resistance. Swami Jitendranand referred to the All India Congress Committee as the All India Church Committee and stated that it must cease its attacks on Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma, or the Sant Samaj will respond forcefully.
Simultaneously, Ayodhya saint Swami Karpatri Ji Maharaj also vehemently criticized Kharge’s statement. He mentioned that Mallikarjun Kharge’s name contains ‘Khadg’, signifying division and cutting, while Yogi Adityanath’s name relates to ‘Yoga’, representing unity. Swami Karpatri Ji also indicated that the Congress party has consistently backed those who assault Hinduism.