Assam CM Warns Congress: Himanta Biswa Sarma has cautioned that if the Congress party doesn’t distance itself from DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin’s controversial comments about Sanatan Dharma, it could reinforce the public’s perception that the party is “anti-Hindu.”
Guwahati, Sep 3(City Times): Assam CM Warns Congress: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has cautioned that if the Congress party doesn’t distance itself from DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin’s controversial comments about Sanatan Dharma, it could reinforce the public’s perception that the party is “anti-Hindu.”
Questioning Congress’s Stance
Sarma questioned the Congress party’s stance on Karti Chidambaram, who defended Udhayanidhi Stalin’s statements. He pointed out that remarks similar to Udhayanidhi’s were also made by Karti Chidambaram and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.
Uproar Over Udhayanidhi Stalin’s Remarks
Udhayanidhi Stalin, Tamil Nadu’s Youth Welfare Minister and DMK youth wing secretary, had alleged that Sanatan Dharma goes against equality and social justice, comparing it to diseases like coronavirus, malaria, and dengue fever.
Political Backlash and Defense
His remarks triggered a social media uproar, with Amit Malviya, the BJP’s IT department in-charge, accusing the DMK leader of advocating for the “genocide” of the 80 percent of the population that follows Sanatan Dharma. Udhayanidhi, however, dismissed this claim, stating that his speech was addressing social issues. Karti Chidambaram, a Congress MP, defended Stalin’s remarks, asserting that the BJP’s characterization of it as “genocidal” was a “mischievous spin.”
Congress Faces a Test
Sarma emphasized that the key question now is whether the Congress will maintain its alliance with the DMK and take action against Chidambaram. He urged Rahul Gandhi to make a decision that shows respect for Sanatan Dharma. The BJP leader refrained from commenting on Hinduism as a religion but stressed that the Congress’s response to this situation would determine whether they are seen as “anti-Hindu” or not.
