On Wednesday, the Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav slammed the BJP government for allegedly egregiously disrespecting Sanatan Dharma in the persons of seers and the Shankaracharya.

While talking to the press, Akhilesh remarked that seers and Shankaracharyas are the pride of their people, and not only the followers from India, but those from beyond the borders also come to them for enlightenment. “The BJP government is, on the one hand, damaging the Sanatan traditions and, on the other, by such acts, they are actually destroying the religions they are supposed to protect,” he remarked.

Akhilesh condemned the government for the part he believed were the actions of government officials in the rude treatment of the Shankaracharya. He opined that such practices were contradictory not only to the Constitution and the law but also to the very notion of brotherhood. “Officials of the government should never conduct themselves in such a manner with the Shankaracharya,” he asserted. No one is being respected in the government,” he added.

He also condemned officials seeking testimonials and certificates from the Shankaracharya, calling it a major insult to Sanatan Dharma. “The BJP government has insulted saints, Sanatan Dharma, Shankaracharya, the Magh Mela and the nation. We will take blessings from all seers, saints and Shankaracharyas and serve the people,” Akhilesh said.

He further stated that true saints are those who follow the path of truth, while some operate to suit government interests. “They are not true saints,” he added.

Akhilesh also alleged that the UP government suppresses truth and dissent. “Anybody who does not adhere to the BJP’s will is being oppressed. Notices are served and agencies like ED and CBI are used against them,” he said.

SP protests over alleged desecration at Manikarnika Ghat

In the same way, the Samajwadi Party organized a demonstration at the Lucknow district magistrate’s office, laying charges against the BJP government over the Manikarnika Ghat renovations in Varanasi, which were claimed to have disrespected the samadhi and the idol of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, the 18th century.

The SP members gave a memorandum to the DM that was directed to the Governor, asking for a fair inquiry and for things to be put right. SP Backward Class wing district president Manoj Kumar Pal said the alleged use of bulldozers on Ahilyabai Holkar’s statue was a serious act of disrespect that hurt the sentiments of millions.

He demanded that the statue be reinstated and those responsible be penalised.