Madhya Pradesh Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar has sparked a major political row after saying that tribals are not Hindus, a remark that invited sharp criticism from the BJP and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav.
Speaking at a Tribal Development Council event in Chhindwara on Thursday, Singhar said, “I say with pride that we are Adivasis, not Hindus. I have been saying this for many years. And it was Shabari, who fed the leftovers to Lord Ram; she too was an Adivasi.”
The Congress leader, a four-time MLA from the Bhil community, clarified that his statement was not meant to offend anyone. “We do not disrespect any religion. But our community, our culture, our heritage must be acknowledged. Tribals deserve respect no matter which party is in power,” he said.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav strongly condemned the remarks, accusing Congress of playing anti-Hindu politics. “It is unfortunate that Congress always works against Hindus and Hindutva. They should be ashamed. People will not forgive leaders who question Hindutva. Congress should apologise,” Yadav said in a video message.
Under pressure, Singhar hit back at the BJP and RSS, accusing them of trying to erase tribal identity. “Tribals are the original inhabitants of this country. Why do BJP and RSS want to stop us from worshipping nature? I respect Hinduism, but when it comes to tribals, they want to impose their agenda,” he said.
He also questioned why no tribal leader has ever been appointed as RSS chief. “BJP wants our votes, but when it comes to our religion, culture and identity, they want to erase it,” he alleged.
Madhya Pradesh has India’s largest tribal population, with 1.53 crore tribals making up over 21 percent of the state’s population according to the 2011 Census. Of the 230 Assembly seats, 47 are reserved for Scheduled Tribes, making tribal politics crucial ahead of the elections.
