On January 11, the BJP strongly criticized the Congress for rejecting the invitation extended to its three top leaders to participate in the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The BJP argued that this decision exposed the Congress’ inherent opposition to India’s culture and Hindu religion.
According to BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi, the Congress’s refusal to attend the ceremony stems from “jealousy, malice, and inferiority complex” towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Trivedi accused the Congress of going to the extent of opposing the country and even opposing God.
Trivedi emphasized that the Ram temple in Ayodhya symbolizes the highest values of Indian traditions and culture. However, he alleged that for the Congress and other Opposition parties with a similar mindset, extremist politics takes precedence over these values.
While mentioning that Iqbal Ansari, the Muslim litigant in the land dispute case, has accepted the invitation, Trivedi criticized the Congress for choosing to boycott the ceremony. He claimed that the Congress has a history of creating hurdles during historic moments for the country.
Trivedi rejected the Congress’ argument that the BJP and RSS had appropriated the event, stating that there should be no division among people in matters related to the temple. He insisted that the temple should not be linked to any specific organization or ideology.
Addressing the Congress’s stance on the idea of rebuilding the mosque, Trivedi questioned whether the party still supports this concept. He drew parallels with historical events, mentioning Jawaharlal Nehru’s opposition to the association of President Rajendra Prasad and some Congress leaders with the rebuilding and inauguration of the Somnath temple. Trivedi claimed that the Congress continues Nehru’s legacy and has disowned Mahatma Gandhi’s ‘Ram Rajya’ concept.
Trivedi concluded by expressing disappointment in the Congress, stating that despite having an opportunity to redeem past mistakes, the party has wasted the chance. He highlighted the national pride associated with the temple, which is being constructed after 500 years of struggle.
The Congress leaders – Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury – had “respectfully declined” the invitation, accusing the BJP of turning the ceremony into a “political project” for electoral gains.
