Historic Ram Mandir Consecration Ceremony Elicits Mixed Responses from Political Leaders
Ayodhya, 17th January 2024: The upcoming consecration ceremony at Ayodhya’s Ram temple on January 22 is set to be a monumental event, drawing attention from across the nation. Dignitaries including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are expected to attend, making it a momentous occasion for the country.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rae Bareli MP Sonia Gandhi have declined the invitation, categorizing the event as a BJP-RSS program. This move showcases a clear opposition perspective on the ceremony. NCP chief Sharad Pawar has taken a diplomatic approach, expressing gratitude for the invitation and committing to a later darshan of Mandir. This nuanced response reflects a balanced stance amid the diverse opinions surrounding the ceremony.
Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi, not invited to the ceremony, has chosen to engage in the Bharat Jodo Nyaya Yatra, emphasizing national unity. This move diverges from the conventional political responses to the Ayodhya event. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, steering clear of the Ayodhya event, will lead a Sadbhavna Rally, promoting communal harmony.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, not receiving an invitation, will perform a ‘Maha Aarti’ at Kalaram Temple in Nashik on January 22, showcasing regional leaders’ varied responses.
In a notable development, Lalu Prasad Yadav has declared his decision not to attend the ceremony in Ayodhya, setting himself apart from other leaders. Leaders like Sharad Pawar, Akhilesh Yadav, and Arvind Kejriwal have conveyed their intentions to have darshan post-ceremony. Pawar and Yadav, in separate statements, expressed gratitude for the invitation and assured independent visits for darshan after the ceremony’s completion.
Despite not receiving a final invitation, Arvind Kejriwal expressed a desire to visit Ayodhya with his family after January 22. He will also attend the Hanuman Chalisa program on the same day, signalling his interest in religious and cultural events.
