'Moon Belongs to Sanatan Dharma': BJP MLA's Bold Claim Sparks Row
BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma sparks controversy by claiming the moon belongs to Sanatan Dharma, prompting a sharp reaction from Muslim leader Abbas Hafeez.
In a statement that has ignited a fresh political and religious debate, BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma has claimed that the moon belongs to Sanatan Dharma. The lawmaker argued that because the moon is depicted on the forehead of Lord Shankar, it is inherently 'Sanatan,' and therefore, those who use it to mark their festivals are essentially interacting with a symbol of Sanatan Dharma.
The 'Sanatan Moon' Argument
Speaking to ANI, Rameshwar Sharma questioned the logic of those who revere the moon without acknowledging its connection to Lord Shankar. He suggested that if people truly respect the moon, they should worship Lord Shankar, as the celestial body resides on the deity's brow.
The MLA specifically addressed the celebration of Eid, which depends on the sighting of the moon. "Since you celebrate Eid by looking at this 'Sanatan' moon, I say: go ahead and celebrate Eid, but look at the 'Sanatan' moon and sing the praises of Sanatan Dharma," Sharma stated.
He further expanded his claim to include other celestial bodies, asserting that the sun also belongs to them. He warned that if Lord Shankar were to retreat into a cave, the moon would vanish, making it impossible to celebrate Eid. He concluded by proudly proclaiming that as long as the sun and moon rise, Sanatan Dharma will endure.
Muslim Leadership Hits Back
The remarks drew a scathing response from Muslim leader Abbas Hafeez, who described the MLA's comments as "childish" and "foolish." Hafeez expressed disappointment, noting that as a three-time MLA, Sharma should have exhibited a higher level of maturity.
Hafeez questioned whether Muslims are now expected to seek permission from a BJP MLA or the state government to celebrate their religious festivals.
"If he is claiming some sort of authority over the moon itself, then I believe he needs psychiatric evaluation,"Hafeez remarked, adding that such discourse is "laughable" and "ridiculous."
Call for Party Discipline
The Muslim leader urged the Bharatiya Janata Party to issue guidelines to rein in its legislators to prevent such "nonsensical" statements. He emphasized that the moon is a universal entity and that those who celebrate Eid will continue to do so without needing the "blessing" or permission of Rameshwar Sharma.
Hafeez concluded by stating that politics should not stoop to a level where leaders resort to such language simply to gain applause or laughter from a crowd.