Ayodhya MP Awadhesh Prasad expresses his greetings to the people of Ayodhya on the occasion of Diwali but accuses BJP of politicizing the festival and dividing people. He states that he has not received an invitation to the grand Deepotsav event, adding that the festival belongs to all communities. Despite not receiving an invitation, the MP says he will be visiting his constituency on Diwali.
Congress MP Accuses BJP of Politicizing Diwali in Ayodhya
Awadhesh Prasad, Congress MP from Ayodhya, has expressed his greetings to the people of his constituency on the occasion of Diwali but has accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of politicizing the festival and dividing people.
Prasad claimed that he had not received an invitation to the grand Deepotsav event being organized by the state government in Ayodhya, which is the birthplace of Lord Ram and a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. He stated that the festival belonged to all communities and should not be used for political gains.
Background
The Deepotsav festival in Ayodhya has gained prominence in recent years, especially after the construction of the Ram temple began on the site of the demolished Babri Masjid. The BJP has been promoting the event as a symbol of Hindu pride and has drawn large crowds to Ayodhya during the festival.
However, critics have accused the BJP of using the festival to consolidate its political base and polarize voters. They have pointed out that the Deepotsav celebrations have often been accompanied by speeches by BJP leaders that emphasize Hindu nationalism and target minority communities.
Prasad's Statement
In his statement, Prasad said, "Diwali is a festival of all communities, not just Hindus. It is a festival of lights that removes darkness and brings happiness. The BJP should not politicize it and divide people."
He added, "I have not received an invitation to the Deepotsav event, but I will be visiting my constituency on Diwali. I will meet the people and celebrate the festival with them."
FAQs
1. What is Deepotsav?
Deepotsav is a Hindu festival celebrated in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. It is believed to be the day when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. The festival is celebrated with the lighting of millions of earthen lamps and fireworks.
2. Why is Ayodhya significant for Hindus?
Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama, who is revered as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is considered one of the seven holiest cities in Hinduism.
3. What is the controversy surrounding Deepotsav?
Critics have accused the BJP of using Deepotsav to promote Hindu nationalism and polarize voters. They have pointed out that the festival has often been accompanied by speeches by BJP leaders that emphasize Hindu supremacy and target minority communities.
4. Why did Awadhesh Prasad not receive an invitation to Deepotsav?
Prasad is a member of the Congress party, which is in opposition to the ruling BJP. The BJP has been accused of excluding opposition leaders from official events.
5. What is the significance of Prasad's statement?
Prasad's statement is significant because it highlights the growing political divide in India. It also suggests that the BJP may be using religious festivals to consolidate its power base.
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