Raipur, Chhattisgarh — Senior BJP leader and former MLA Devji Bhai Patel has launched a sharp attack on Congress leaders following controversial remarks allegedly made by former Union Minister Charandas Mahant and former Deputy Chief Minister T.S. Singhdeo regarding renowned Hindu spiritual leader Jagadguru Rambhadracharya.
Patel claimed that the comments exposed what he described as Congress’ “deep-rooted opposition to Sanatan Dharma” and called the statements disrespectful toward one of Hinduism’s most revered religious scholars.
Speaking to reporters in Raipur, Patel said Jagadguru Rambhadracharya is not only a globally respected spiritual figure but also a symbol of Hindu faith and scholarship. He highlighted the seer’s role during the Ayodhya Ram Temple legal proceedings, stating that Rambhadracharya had presented historical and religious evidence regarding Lord Ram’s birthplace before India’s Supreme Court.
“Making derogatory remarks against such a highly respected saint is not only inappropriate but an insult to the entire Hindu community,” Patel said.
Allegations of Political Motives
Patel further alleged that certain Congress leaders in Chhattisgarh were making “anti-Sanatan” statements to gain favor with party leadership in New Delhi, especially at a time when discussions over the appointment of the state Congress president are underway.
According to Patel, Congress leaders selectively target Hindu religious figures while avoiding criticism of leaders from other religions. He demanded that Congress issue a public apology over the controversy.
Defense of Rambhadracharya’s Legacy
The BJP leader strongly defended Jagadguru Rambhadracharya’s contributions to religion, education, and social service. He described the spiritual leader as a scholar with extraordinary command over Hindu scriptures, including the Vedas, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavata Purana, and classical Sanskrit literature.
Patel also recalled Rambhadracharya’s involvement in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and alleged that the saint faced hardships and imprisonment during the movement. He claimed that the spiritual leader suffered physical injuries while participating in the cause.
In addition, Patel praised Rambhadracharya’s philanthropic work, particularly the establishment of a university dedicated to differently-abled students. He stated that the institution has educated thousands of students free of cost and provided them with employment opportunities.
Patel further claimed that in 2022, Rambhadracharya donated assets worth nearly ₹2,000 crore associated with the university to the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure institutional stability and prevent future disputes.
Social Welfare and Public Service
Highlighting the saint’s humanitarian work during the COVID-19 pandemic, Patel alleged that Rambhadracharya organized food distribution for nearly 5,000 people daily for two consecutive years.
He also noted that hundreds of differently-abled students continue to receive Sanskrit and modern education at institutions associated with the spiritual leader.
“Jagadguru Rambhadracharya is not merely a saint; he is a social reformer, philanthropist, nationalist, and defender of India’s spiritual heritage,” Patel said.
References to Congress History
Patel questioned Congress leaders about their role during the Ram Temple movement, asking how many party members had participated in protests, faced imprisonment, or made sacrifices for the cause.
He also referenced former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, claiming she had personally met Rambhadracharya and once offered assistance for his medical treatment abroad. Patel argued that the Congress party’s current criticism contradicts the respect shown to the spiritual leader during earlier Congress governments.
The BJP leader concluded by questioning whether Congress would now demand the return of honors such as the Padma Vibhushan and other prestigious recognitions awarded to Rambhadracharya.
The controversy has intensified political tensions in Chhattisgarh, with the BJP attempting to position itself as a defender of Hindu religious traditions while accusing Congress of disrespecting spiritual leaders associated with Sanatan Dharma.
