The recent incident involving the alleged arrest of Lord Ganesha by the Karnataka government has ignited widespread outrage and controversy. On September 13, during a Ganesh immersion procession in Congress-ruled Karnataka, participants were reportedly attacked with stones. Rather than taking action against the attackers, the police arrested those opposing the incident and seized the Ganesha idol. This unprecedented event, a first in independent India’s history, has shocked the Hindu community in Karnataka and beyond, drawing ire from Hindu brothers in Maharashtra and other regions.
Political Reactions to Ganapati Aarti
The controversy surrounding Lord Ganesha’s arrest has also stirred political reactions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who attended a Ganapati Aarti, faced criticism from Congress and the Mahavikas Aghadi coalition. Chief Justice of India Dhananjay Chandrachud, known for his Marathi heritage, installed Shri Ganesha at his residence, which led to further scrutiny and questions about his impartiality.
The spirit of Hindu festivals, traditionally meant to promote mutual respect and affection, appears to be overshadowed by political discord. Critics argue that Congress and the Uddhav Thackeray group seem to have strayed from this tradition. Hindutva activists are questioning the inconsistency of leaders who host Iftar parties but oppose Ganpati Aarti, raising concerns about the perceived double standards.
BJP’s Response and Historical Context
In response, the BJP has highlighted past events to counter Congress’s stance. The party reminded Congress of the 2009 Iftar party hosted by then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, which was attended by Chief Justice KG Balakrishnan. Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora criticized Congress for objecting to Modi’s Ganapati Aarti while previously endorsing similar events.
Controversial Remarks at Sambhaji Brigade Event
Further complicating the political landscape, controversial remarks were made at a recent Sambhaji Brigade anniversary event. Patron Sharad Pawar and Congress MP Shahu Maharaj were present when derogatory comments about Hindu deities, including Prabhu Sri Ramachandra and Swami Samarth, were made. The lack of reaction from Pawar and Maharaj, who were seen laughing during these remarks, drew criticism. Sharad Pawar’s subsequent visit to the Raja of Lalbagh suggests a recognition of the situation’s gravity, yet his regular attendance at Iftar parties without similar participation in Hindu traditions like Wari has not gone unnoticed.
Broader Implications and Hindu Sentiments
The broader implications of these events extend to various political parties, including Congress, Trinamool Congress, Samajwadi Party, National Conference, and Aam Aadmi Party, which are seen as relying on fatwas for electoral support. Remarks made by figures like Gyanesh Maharao, who criticized Hindu deities and practices, have deeply hurt Hindu sentiments and exacerbated the tension.
In summary, the alleged arrest of Lord Ganesha and the subsequent political reactions underscore the ongoing tension between religious traditions and political actions in India. The incident highlights the challenges of balancing political agendas with respect for religious practices, leaving the community grappling with the implications of these developments.
