PM not a pujari, why did he take lead in placing Ram idol: Mallikarjun Kharge

 Kharge responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's accusation that the Congress abstained from the Ram Temple consecration

Digital Desk: During The Indian Express Idea Exchange program, discussing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's participation in the 'Pran Pratishtha' rituals at the recently inaugurated Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge remarked that PM Modi is "not a priest." Kharge questioned why the Prime Minister took the initiative to perform and establish the Ram idol, suggesting it was done for political reasons. He also noted that one-third of the temple remains incomplete.

When asked if, in retrospect, he thought the Congress should have joined in the consecration of the Ram Temple, Kharge remarked, as The Indian Express quotes: “That is personal faith. Whosoever wants, they can go on that day, next day or any day… He (Modi) is not a pujari. Why should he take the lead in performing, establishing the Ram idol… He just (did it) for political purposes. One-third of the temple is not completed… Is it a political function or a religious function? Why are you mixing religion with politics?”

Kharge responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's accusation that the Congress abstained from the Ram Temple consecration due to political pressures. Kharge countered by highlighting that Scheduled Castes still face restrictions in accessing many temples, questioning whether the public would have accepted his attendance in Ayodhya under such circumstances.

Kharge further dismissed Modi's "400 paar" campaign slogan, asserting that the Prime Minister's aspiration for a third term would remain unfulfilled as the populace desires a "change." He cautioned against the prospect of another term, citing BJP leaders' discussions about altering the Constitution.