New Delhi, The Indian National Congress has announced its decision not to attend the upcoming Ram Temple inauguration in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, scheduled for January 22. The party has described the event as a BJP-RSS orchestrated political function, distancing itself from the ceremony.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the party has expressed its belief that religion should remain a personal matter, criticizing the BJP and RSS for politicizing the Ayodhya temple issue. “Religion is a personal matter but the RSS and the BJP have made Ayodhya temple a political project,” the Congress stated. The party pointed out that the inauguration of the incomplete temple was seemingly timed to coincide with electoral gains, given the proximity of the Lok Sabha elections.
Senior leaders of the Congress, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, have reportedly declined the invitation to the event, which they perceive as predominantly an RSS/BJP affair. This decision reflects the party’s stance on maintaining a clear distinction between religious and political activities.
The Congress’s decision mirrors a broader dilemma faced by opposition parties in India. Many are apprehensive about attending the event, fearing accusations of being anti-Sanatan if they abstain, and playing into the BJP’s narrative if they participate.
Other parties, such as the CPI-M, have similarly chosen not to attend the ceremony, citing the politicization of what they believe should be a purely religious event. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of using the temple inauguration as a political ploy ahead of the elections.
The Congress’s statement also touches upon the broader issue of societal polarization in India, hinting at the reluctance of even secular parties like themselves to openly reject invitations to such events due to the potential for hurting religious sentiments among Muslim communities.
This development highlights the complex interplay of religion, politics, and societal dynamics in India, especially in the context of significant religious events and their political implications.
Karachi, Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab announced that the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) will host the annual Marigold Festival at Frere Hall Lawn, starting this Friday. The three-day festival, showcasing the winter bloom of marigolds, is expected to draw a large number of citizens and their families, with free entry for all visitors.
According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Mayor Wahab, during his visit to Frere Hall to inspect the festival preparations, highlighted the significance of the Marigold Festival as a KMC tradition. He praised the marigold’s popularity in Karachi, noting its vibrant display after six months of cultivation. This year’s festival will feature thousands of colorful marigold flowers, arranged attractively on the lawn of Frere Hall.
In addition to celebrating the beauty of marigolds, the Mayor emphasized KMC’s efforts in developing Karachi’s infrastructure and improving its parks. He mentioned that arrangements are being made to maintain all fountains at Frere Hall Lawn in good condition, enhancing the experience for the thousands of daily visitors. The renovation of Frere Hall, a historical landmark of Karachi, is also ongoing.
Mayor Wahab reflected on the importance of flowers, plants, and trees in creating a calming environment and contributing to a pleasant city atmosphere. He stressed the role of greenery in combating climate change challenges and informed that KMC is actively working on citywide plantation to promote green spaces in Karachi.
The Mayor encouraged citizens to attend the Marigold Festival with their families to enjoy the colorful display of flowers and appreciate the natural beauty of their city.