Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jul 6: Congress leader Padmaraj R has called for religious leaders, particularly Swamijis, to refrain from involving themselves in political matters. "Everyone should condemn the interference of religious swamijis in political affairs," Padmaraj stated in a press conference on Saturday, July 6.

Padmaraj expressed his concerns regarding recent comments made by Pejawar Swamiji Sri Vishwaprasanna Theertha about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's statements in parliament. "Rahul Gandhi raised several issues in parliament, and Pejawar Swamiji criticized him over his comments related to Hinduism. Swamiji should focus on addressing social injustices within the Hindu community and stay within the boundaries of religious and social welfare," he said. Padmaraj also noted that Swamiji accused the Congress party of misleading the public, which he claimed led to the BJP not receiving the expected number of seats.

The MP candidate also referenced swamiji's comments on the incomplete construction work at the Ram Mandir, which reportedly needs an additional one and a half years to finish. "Swamiji questioned the necessity of inaugurating the temple urgently just before the elections if the work was incomplete. Is this not a political manoeuvre?" Padmaraj asked.

Furthermore, Padmaraj criticised the BJP's response, or lack thereof, to various issues raised by Rahul Gandhi, including irregularities in the NEET. "The BJP, even its student wing, has not addressed these issues, showing a lack of concern for the underprivileged," he said. He also challenged the BJP's portrayal of itself as the sole representative of the Hindu community, citing his own election results, where he received over 300,000 votes from Hindu voters. "BJP talks as if they have a monopoly on the Hindu religion," he remarked.

Padmaraj highlighted economic issues under the current government, comparing petrol prices during the UPA government and now, and pointing out discrepancies in the price and quantity of milk. "Even though international crude oil prices have declined, the BJP government has not reduced petrol prices to Rs 60-62. They are hiding the fact that while milk prices have increased, so has the quantity, and they are diverting people's attention by protesting," he added.

Congress spokesperson M G Hegde expressed support for Rahul Gandhi's statements in parliament and urged Pejawar Swamiji to build the Hindu community independently of political affiliations. "Hinduism preaches equality and non-violence, not fear. I urge Pejawar Swamiji to guide BJP leaders responsibly," he concluded.