In a surprising development, the Congress party has decided to skip the ‘Pran Pratistha’ ceremony for the Ram Temple inauguration in Ayodhya, scheduled for January 22. The Congress labeled the event as a political initiative, sparking a sharp reaction from BJP leaders who deemed the move “unfortunate, painful, and shameful.”
Reacting to Congress’s decision, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad expressed disappointment, emphasizing that the ceremony for Lord Ram is a matter of joy for the entire nation. He criticized Congress for historically opposing the Ram Janmabhoomi cause and predicted electoral consequences for the party.
Another BJP MP, Sudhanshu Trivedi, accused Congress of habitual boycotting, citing instances such as the inauguration of the new Parliament building and the G20 Summit. He asserted that the public is increasingly turning away from the Congress party.
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya highlighted that the invitation came from the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, not the government or the BJP. He argued that Congress’s refusal reflects their opposition to Lord Ram, citing previous instances where the party had questioned the existence of Lord Ram.
Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, Champat Rai, acknowledged that several invitees are not attending the ceremony, mentioning that there are various perspectives on the matter.
Former litigant Iqbal Ansari, however, expressed his intention to attend the ceremony, emphasizing that it is a personal choice related to religious beliefs.
Union Minister Giriraj Singh accused Congress of being “seasonal Hindus” and lacking the moral strength to go to Ayodhya. He argued that Congress’s historical actions, including delaying the Ayodhya case in court, undermine their credibility.
Union Minister Smriti Irani accused Congress and the INDIA bloc of having an anti-Sanatana mindset, pointing to their historical stance on Lord Ram as a fictional character. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah clarified that the Congress is not against Lord Ram but opposes the politicization of the temple construction.
In a statement, senior Congress leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, confirmed their decision to decline the invitation, and giving it a political angle. Also emphasizing their commitment to the 2019 Supreme Court judgment.
Preparations for the ‘Pran Pratistha’ ceremony are in full swing, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to attend the installation of the Ram Lalla idol on January 22. The ceremony is scheduled to span seven days, starting on January 16.
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