Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has strongly criticized Hindutva, stating that it is not a “dharma” (religion) but rather an ideology that promotes violence and attacks those who hold differing opinions. Speaking at a press conference in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Singh expressed his belief in Sanatam dharm, which he described as a philosophy of harmony and the welfare of all. Singh specifically targeted Bajrang Dal, the youth wing of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, calling it a “goondon ki jamat” (group of goons).
He condemned the actions of the organization, accusing them of vandalizing the Jabalpur Congress committee office. Singh found it distressing that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi equated Bajrang Dal with Bajrang Bali (Lord Hanuman), considering it a disrespectful act towards the deity. The Congress leader emphasized that the party adheres to the Constitution, rules, and laws of the country. He cited the Supreme Court’s directives, which call for registering cases against individuals who spread hatred, regardless of their religion. Singh’s comments were made in response to a question regarding the Congress’ electoral promise to ban Bajrang Dal in Karnataka.
During the recently held Karnataka polls, the Congress included in its manifesto a commitment to take strong action against organizations such as Bajrang Dal and Popular Front of India, which are accused of spreading hatred based on caste and religion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the other hand, invoked Bajrang Bali during his campaign for the elections, but the BJP ultimately lost the polls to the Congress. Digvijaya Singh’s strong critique of Hindutva and his call for harmony and adherence to the law reflect the ongoing political debate surrounding religious ideologies and their impact on society.