"Read Gita without hesitation": West Bengal CM Adhikari urges citizens
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari urges citizens to recite the Bhagwat Gita without hesitation, promising action against those disrupting religious faith.
In a powerful statement aimed at reassuring the faithful, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has encouraged citizens to recite the Bhagwat Gita without any fear or apprehension. Addressing a gathering in Kolkata on Sunday, the Chief Minister asserted that the political and social landscape of the state has undergone a significant transformation, making it safe for religious expression.
A Promise of Protection Against Disruptions
Speaking at an event dedicated to the recitation of the holy scripture, Adhikari took a firm stand against those he labeled as the "Tukde-Tukde Gang." He specifically referenced a previous incident involving Bageshwar Baba, noting that during his visit to propagate his faith, Communist supporters had resorted to burning his effigy.
"Some time ago, Bageshwar Baba came to propagate his faith. Communists burned his effigy," Adhikari recalled. He reminded the audience that he had already voiced his intention in the Legislative Assembly to take strict action against such provocations. "Now, read the Gita without hesitation; there is nothing to fear. Times have changed. Do not be afraid," he declared, promising that those attempting to disrupt religious sentiments would face consequences.
Massive Gita Recitation Planned for December
The Chief Minister also highlighted the scale of upcoming religious activities in the state. He noted that the event, organized by the Bangur Jagran Manch and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, is set to reach historic proportions. Key details shared during his address include:
- The Date: A massive recitation event is scheduled for December 29.
- The Scale: It is expected that ten lakh voices will participate in the recitation.
- Special Guest: Organizers have announced that RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will attend the historic occasion.
Adhikari added a personal note to his presence, stating that he attended the gathering not merely in his official capacity as Chief Minister, but as a Sanatani.
Context of the Recent Religious Row
The Chief Minister's remarks come amidst a period of heightened tension regarding religious and cultural identity in West Bengal. Recently, a controversy erupted involving Dhirendra Shastri, popularly known as Bageshwar Baba.
Congress leader Manash Sarkar recently lodged a police complaint against Shastri at the Bhawanipore Police Station in Kolkata. The complaint alleges that Shastri's comments regarding Bengali identity, dietary habits, and the celebration of Durga Puja were offensive and had the potential to incite social disharmony.
Sarkar expressed outrage over Shastri's remarks, questioning the preacher's authority over local customs. "He is telling us what we should or should not eat. He is asking why we eat non-vegetarian food, why we eat fish, mutton, and chicken. Is he going to decide what we should eat?" Sarkar asked, while also demanding an apology and police intervention.