Controversy Erupts as NCP Leader’s Remarks on Lord Ram Stir Anger Ahead of Temple Consecration
A whirlwind of controversy has erupted following Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Jitendra Awhad’s contentious remarks regarding Lord Ram’s dietary habits, igniting outrage just days before the highly anticipated Ram temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. Awhad’s statement, asserting that “Lord Ram was a non-vegetarian,” sparked fervent backlash and protests, with accusations of hurting religious sentiments.
Speaking at an event in Shridi, Maharashtra, Awhad, a part of the Sharad Pawar camp within the NCP, stirred controversy by claiming, “Lord Ram belongs to us, Bahujans. He used to hunt and eat animals.” He defended his stance, citing Lord Ram’s tenure in the forests during the epic Ramayana, questioning the feasibility of finding vegetarian food during that period.
The incendiary remarks swiftly drew strong reactions, with supporters of the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP protesting outside Awhad’s Mumbai residence, demanding action against him. Led by BJP MLA Ram Kadam, protesters voiced their grievances, vowing to file a case against Awhad for allegedly offending Hindu sentiments. Police presence has been bolstered around Awhad’s residence amid the escalating tensions.
Adding fuel to the fire, Awhad further stirred controversy by asserting that India’s independence was solely due to Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. He asserted, “We got independence only because of Gandhi and Nehru,” attributing attacks on Gandhi to his OBC (Other Backward Classes) status, insinuating disapproval from the RSS, the BJP’s ideological mentor.
Amidst these controversies, preparations in Ayodhya for the imminent Ram temple consecration ceremony have intensified. Local authorities and police are bolstering security measures in anticipation of an influx of visitors, ensuring stringent arrangements to safeguard the smooth execution of the temple’s consecration event.
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