A political controversy has broken out after Hemant Soren made remarks in the Jharkhand Assembly questioning the outcomes of religious practices, drawing sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party.
The comments, made during the concluding day of the Budget Session on Wednesday, triggered strong reactions from BJP leaders, who accused the Chief Minister of disrespecting Hindu beliefs and festivals.
Soren Questions Focus on Rituals Over Education
While addressing the Assembly, Soren reflected on the widespread observance of religious rituals in India and raised concerns about the country’s progress in areas like education and development.
“Here, people say, ‘perform this puja’, ‘perform that puja’, but there is very little discussion regarding education. Given this situation, it is difficult to understand how we are supposed to become a ‘Vishwa Guru’,” Soren said.
He also pointed out that despite celebrations such as Saraswati Puja and Lakshmi Puja, many talented individuals and economic prosperity appear to be concentrated abroad. “Something is definitely amiss,” he remarked, questioning the tangible outcomes of such practices.
BJP Leaders Demand Apology
Reacting strongly, Aditya Sahu, who is also a Rajya Sabha MP, accused Soren of insulting Hindu deities and traditions.
“Driven by appeasement politics, such statements are unfortunate. Leaders in power must respect all religions,” Sahu said, adding that the Chief Minister’s remarks on festivals like Saraswati Puja, Lakshmi Puja, Vishwakarma Puja and Ram Navami were insensitive.
He further alleged that Soren was following the approach of Rahul Gandhi and claimed that such comments reflected a “dual character,” pointing out that the Chief Minister himself participates in religious rituals.
Sahu demanded a public apology and warned of public backlash if the issue was not addressed. “If similar remarks were made about other religions, there would have been a strong reaction,” he said.
Opposition Voices Join Criticism
Former Leader of Opposition Amar Kumar Bauri also criticised the Chief Minister’s statement, calling it “shameful” and cautioning that such remarks could send a negative message in society.
He said public figures must exercise restraint, especially when speaking on sensitive issues related to religion and public sentiment.
JMM Hits Back, Calls Row Politically Motivated
The ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha rejected the BJP’s allegations and accused the party of politicising religion.
Party spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya dismissed the controversy as manufactured and said the BJP often raises religious issues to maintain political relevance.
“The BJP keeps invoking religion to sustain itself politically. This controversy is being unnecessarily amplified,” Bhattacharya said.
