Husain Dalwai's statement calling Sanatan Dharma a radical ideology and the Manusmriti anti-constitutional has sparked a political uproar.
Husain Dalwai: The politics of Maharashtra are once again in the spotlight due to clashes over religion and ideology. Following the controversial statement by NCP-SCP MLA Jitendra Awhad, Congress senior leader and former Rajya Sabha MP Husain Dalwai's statement regarding Sanatan Dharma has further intensified the political turmoil. In his statement, Dalwai linked Sanatan Dharma to radicalism and termed the Manusmriti as anti-constitutional, leading to b reactions across the country.
Controversy Started with Awhad's Remark
The entire episode began with the statement by NCP leader Jitendra Awhad, in which he said that 'Sanatan Dharma has ruined India.' He also claimed that no religion by the name of Sanatan existed historically, and it is only an ideology that promotes social inequality, untouchability, and casteism. Awhad cited the social injustices faced by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Sambhaji Maharaj, Jyotirao Phule, Savitribai Phule, and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar as examples. He also said that Sanatan ideology was responsible for depriving Ambedkar of basic facilities like education and water.
Husain Dalwai's Counterattack, Sanatan Termed Anti-Constitutional
Now, Congress leader Husain Dalwai has deepened this debate by saying, 'People who follow Sanatan Dharma mostly have radical thinking. They consider the Manusmriti as supreme, while the philosophy of the Manusmriti is contrary to our constitution.' He said that the Constitution of India gives everyone the right to equality, but the Sanatani ideology promotes caste-based discrimination.
Dalwai differentiated between Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma, saying that true Hinduism is based on Gandhian ideology, which talks about taking everyone along. He also added that the Sanatan ideology has worked to suppress the weaker sections of society from time to time.
Parliament Proceedings and Rahul Gandhi
Dalwai also commented on the current political situation of the country, saying that the voice of the opposition is being suppressed in Parliament. He said, 'When Rahul Gandhi raises questions, the government avoids answering.' On the recent comment of the Supreme Court, Dalwai said that respect for the judiciary is important, but the accountability of the government is equally important in a democracy.
Clarity on Terrorism and Naxalism
Dalwai also opposed the statement made by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut regarding terrorism. He said, 'Naxalism and terrorism cannot be seen in the same light.' According to Dalwai, Naxalism is a movement born from the womb of poverty, unemployment and illiteracy, while terrorism is an organized, global threat that is carried out even by educated people. He said that the present government has failed to remove economic inequality, due to which the feeling of discontent and insecurity has increased in the Naxal-affected areas. This situation is a wake-up call for the internal security of the country.
'Operation Sindoor' and Government's Discomfort
Dalwai, referring to the discussion on 'Operation Sindoor' in Parliament, said that this matter exposes the diplomatic and intelligence failure of the government. He alleged that the government is not serious about this issue and it raises questions about its working style. He also added that the INDIA alliance is now more organized and active than before and will fight together against anti-people policies.
