"Unacceptable to Lord Ram's devotees, public": BJP Tarun Chugh slams Akhilesh Yadav over 'Diwali-Christmas' remark

New Delhi [India], October 20 (ANI): BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh on Monday hit out at SP chief Akhilesh Yadav over his "Diwali-Christmas" remark, calling it "unacceptable to Lord Ram's devotees" and accusing the Congress and SP of hypocrisy in invoking Lord Ram's name after opposing India's cultural traditions for years.
Speaking to ANI, Chugh said, "The Congress and Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party, which have opposed the country's eternal culture throughout their lives, are now attempting to impart wisdom in the name of Lord Ram. This is unacceptable to Lord Ram's devotees and the public...Such people are now out to give lessons on Ram Navami and Deepotsav... "
Chugh remarks came after Akhilesh Yadav, suggested that people should refrain from spending money on lamps and candles.
Yadav stated that cities across the country remain illuminated for months during the Christmas season, highlighting the festive atmosphere it creates.
"I dont want to give a suggestion. But I will give one suggestion on the name of Lord Ram. In the entire world, all the cities get illuminated during Christmas. And that goes on for months. We should learn from them. Why do we have to spend money on lamps and candles and put so much thought into it? What can we expect from this government; it should be removed. We will make sure that there are more beautiful lights," Akhilesh Yadav said while addressing a press conference.
Earlier on Sunday, BJP leader Nalin Kohli responded to SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's comments on Diwali and Christmas, suggesting that Yadav's critique of Sanatana Dharma is selective.
Speaking with ANI, Kohli stated that while Yadav is entitled to his opinions, he should ideally share his views on all religions rather than focusing solely on Hinduism.
Kohli argued that if Yadav wants to critique Sanatana Dharma, he should also share his views on other religions and advise them accordingly.
Kohli emphasised that people should be free to follow their religions in the manner they wish, and that Yadav should respect this freedom.
"Akhilesh ji, like anyone else under the Constitution, is entitled to have a point of view. But why only Sanatana Dharma? If, as a political person, he wants to have a point of view on any religion, then perhaps he should share his views on all religions and advise all religions in his own manner on what he thinks they should not do. Otherwise, leave Hinduism and Sanatana Dharma to those who follow it, to follow it in the manner they wish to do. He wants to follow it in the manner he wishes to do. He's entitled to," Nalin Kohli told ANI. (ANI)