Union Minister Smriti Irani, addressing a gathering at a public rally in Sehore, has proclaimed that the forthcoming Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections will transcend the mere pursuit of votes, evolving instead into a fierce confrontation between “dharma” (righteousness) and “adharma” (non-righteousness).
Her remarks were made during the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) ‘Jan Ashirwad Yatra,’ aimed at garnering support ahead of the anticipated state polls scheduled for later this year.
“This is not a fight for votes. This is a battle between dharma and adharma,” she asserted, underscoring the profound ideological dimension of the upcoming electoral contest.
Irani, in an apparent reference to recent comments made by some leaders of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) against Sanatan Dharma, invoked history by noting, “The British came and went back, the Mughal empire ended, but we (Sanatan Dharma) are still here and will continue to be there tomorrow as well.”
Turning her attention to the polls, Irani framed the battle as one between those who invoke the name of Lord Ram and those who, she claimed, under the aegis of Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, had submitted court documents denying the existence of Lord Ram.
“This is not going to be an ordinary electoral battle. There is an alliance of those who are trying to destroy Sanatan Dharma, and our resolve is that we will protect religion as long as we live,” Irani declared, emphasizing the significance of preserving religious and cultural values.
The Union Minister also weighed in on the recent announcement of an opposition alliance named “INDIA” boycotting shows featuring 14 television anchors. In her response, she expressed surprise at the Gandhi family’s apparent reluctance to face questions from journalists.
Irani further posed a rhetorical challenge to the opposition and the Gandhis, asking how they intend to compete with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, suggesting that the strength and leadership of the Prime Minister would be a formidable factor in the upcoming electoral battle.
In a final quip, Irani playfully mocked the opposition alliance “INDIA,” stating that merely changing names does not transform a jackal into a lion, highlighting the need for substance beyond nomenclature.
