Congress ecosystem shaken: PM Modi’s attendance at Ganpati puja at Chief Justice’s residence sparks controversy

PTC News Desk: Days after his attendance at Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud’s Ganpati Puja sparked political controversy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi defended his participation on Tuesday. Modi accused the Congress party and its allies of being “rattled” by his involvement in the celebration, suggesting that “power-hungry and divisive forces” were troubled by the Ganesh festival.

Addressing a rally in Bhubaneswar, Modi linked the current criticism to historical grievances, saying, “Even during the British colonial period, when the policy of divide and rule was prevalent, the British despised Ganesh Utsav.

बांटो और राज करो की नीति पर चलने वाले अंग्रेजों की नजरों में उस समय भी गणेश उत्सव खटकता था, आज भी समाज को बांटने और तोड़ने में लगे सत्ता के भूखे लोगों को गणेश पूजा से परेशानी हो रही है।

आपने देखा होगा, कांग्रेस और उसके इकोसिस्टम के लोग इसलिए भड़के हुए हैं, क्योंकि मैंने गणेश… pic.twitter.com/hsnV5sfRJr

— BJP (@BJP4India) September 17, 2024

Today, those who continue to divide and break society find themselves at odds with the festival.” He highlighted how Ganesh Utsav had historically served as a symbol of unity during India’s struggle for independence, countering British efforts to create discord within the country.

The Prime Minister denounced what he called a “hateful mindset” from those opposing the celebration, alleging that their criticisms reflect a broader intention to sow division. He urged citizens to resist such divisive forces and reaffirmed Ganesh Utsav’s role as more than just a religious festival, emphasising its historical significance in fostering national unity.

Modi’s remarks follow criticism from opposition figures who questioned the appropriateness of his participation in the religious event alongside the Chief Justice. The controversy underscores ongoing tensions between political and judicial figures in India.

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