Congress leader Rahul Gandhi raised objections today after being denied entry to the Batadrava Satra Temple in Assam, accusing authorities of restricting his visit. The temple holds significance as the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva, a revered Assamese saint and scholar from the 15th century. Rahul Gandhi questioned the reasons behind the restrictions, emphasizing his desire to offer prayers at the temple.
Restrictions Prompt Rahul Gandhi’s Query
Expressing his disappointment, Rahul Gandhi questioned the imposed restrictions, stating, “We want to visit the temple. What transgression have I committed that bars my entry to the temple?” He further clarified that their intention was not to create problems but to engage in prayer at the sacred site.
Allegations Against PM Modi
Rahul Gandhi, in response to the denial, alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would now decide who could enter the temple. He expressed concern over the limitation of allowing only one person to enter the temple, implying political interference.
Sit-In Protest Follows Denial
Following the temple entry denial incident, Congress leaders, along with Rahul Gandhi, initiated a sit-in protest in Nagaon. The sit-in reflects their objection to what they perceive as unjust restrictions on their visit to the temple.
Assam CM’s Concerns and Request
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier urged Rahul Gandhi to reconsider the route for his ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.’ The Chief Minister expressed concerns about potential clashes with the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, emphasizing the need to avoid unnecessary competition between events.
Conflicting Events and Image Concerns
Chief Minister Sarma highlighted the potential negative impact on Assam’s image due to conflicting events. He urged Rahul Gandhi to reconsider plans, stating, “This won’t be good for Assam.” Sarma emphasized the importance of avoiding a perception of competition between the consecration ceremony and the visit to Srimanta Sankardeva’s birthplace.
Nationwide Protests and Allegations
The Congress party responded to the temple entry denial by announcing nationwide protests. General Secretary KC Venugopal leveled allegations against the Assam Chief Minister, accusing him of coordinating attacks on their convoys, properties, and leaders. He labeled Chief Minister Sarma as “the most corrupt chief minister in India” and called for large-scale protests across the country, denouncing what he claimed to be an “assault on democracy” in Assam by the BJP-led government.
Hostility During Road Show
In a recent road show, Rahul Gandhi faced a hostile crowd at a roadside eatery in Nagaon, with slogans raised against him. Placards with messages like ‘Anyay Yatra’ and ‘Rakibul go back’ were displayed, reflecting the tense atmosphere during the ongoing events.
Conclusion: Political Tensions Surround Temple Visit
Rahul Gandhi’s denial of entry to the Batadrava Satra Temple has escalated political tensions in Assam, with both parties engaged in a war of words. The temple visit, which holds cultural and religious significance, has become a focal point in the broader political landscape of the region. The sit-in protest and nationwide demonstrations further amplify the discord between political entities. Stay tuned for further developments in this ongoing situation.
