Sam Pitroda, the chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress, expressed his concerns about the prominence of religious issues in Indian politics, citing the focus on the Ram Temple and lighting of lamps as national issues. His comments come just days ahead of the grand opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited to install the idol of Lord Ram in the temple’s sanctum sanctorum.
In an interview with Aanworld, Sam Pitroda stated, “The election of 2024 is going to decide the destiny of the country. It is going to decide the path that India takes in the future. And I am worried about it.” He emphasized his concern about the excessive importance given to religion and the undermining of democracy. Pitroda expressed discomfort with the nation’s focus on issues like the Ram Temple and Ram Janmabhoomi, stating, “To me, religion is something very personal, and national issues are education, employment, growth, economy, inflation, health, environment, pollution. But no one speaks about it.”
Highlighting the difference between nations based on religion and those built on democracy and human rights, Pitroda cited Israel and Pakistan as examples of the former, contrasting them with countries like the United States that prioritize democracy and freedom.
When asked about Rahul Gandhi’s recent image makeover following the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Pitroda commented on the challenges of understanding Rahul Gandhi in the Indian political context. He praised Gandhi as a young, educated leader with political acumen, noting, “An honest politician is considered naive in India. According to me, Rahul Gandhi is very qualified. He may have a different style, which we all have.”
As India approaches the 2024 elections, Pitroda’s concerns reflect a broader discourse on the intersection of religion and politics in the country.
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