PM Modi Urges Ministers To Focus On Sanatan Dharma Controversy Over Bharat vs India Debate

New Delhi, 6th September 2023: During Wednesday’s cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed a message to his ministers regarding the ongoing controversy surrounding Sanatan Dharma. He emphasized the need for ministers to engage in informed discussions on this topic rather than dwelling on political debates related to Bharat vs India.

Prime Minister Modi urged his ministers to respond to criticisms of Sanatan Dharma made by opposition leaders with well-reasoned arguments, backed by accurate facts. He encouraged them to conduct thorough research and provide fitting rebuttals to these attacks.

It is evident that the BJP in Tamil Nadu is prepared to take statements made by Udhayanidhi Stalin and leaders from other parties such as Congress, AAP, and RJD and turn them into a significant issue.

Sources within the BJP indicate that the party plans to leverage this issue in the 2024 elections, particularly as the inauguration of the Ram temple approaches. Handing over such an issue to the BJP at this juncture could potentially be a strategic blunder for the opposition.

Prime Minister Modi advised ministers to refrain from delving into historical aspects and to focus solely on presenting factual information while staying within the boundaries of the Constitution. He stressed the importance of addressing the prevailing circumstances.

Furthermore, his guidance to speak within the confines of the Constitution implies refraining from commenting on other religions, allowing the opposition to respond solely to matters related to Sanatan Dharma.

Prime Minister Modi also cautioned against hasty comments on the “Bharat vs India” issue. He recommended that official spokespersons or individuals authorized by the party be responsible for presenting the party’s stance on this matter. This approach aims to avoid impulsive comments from party members.

It is worth noting that Amit Shah was the first to criticize Udhayanidhi Stalin’s statement, indicating the BJP’s intent to make this issue a focal point in the upcoming assembly elections in four states and subsequently in the Lok Sabha elections.

While Udhayanidhi’s statement has not faced criticism from Congress leaders, some, like Priyank Kharge, have already offered their support. As a result, the BJP may become more assertive in its stance.

It would not be surprising if this issue, originating from South India, comes to influence the direction of politics across India in the future. The BJP is expected to use this statement as an opportunity to position itself as a protector of Sanatan Dharma.