Ramdev’s ‘Hindu Rashtra’ remarks spark political row, Opposition slams statement
The yoga guru said all Indians share common ancestors and urged Muslims to embrace their ancestral traditions, drawing criticism from Congress, AIMIM, SP and NCP (SP)
Yoga guru Ramdev has said there is no reason for anyone to fear the idea of a “Hindu Rashtra”, asserting that Muslims and Christians face no threat in India.
The 60-year-old yoga guru also claimed that despite differences in religion, “our ancestors are the same”. Recalling a visit to Darul Uloom Deoband in 2009, Ramdev said he had told those present that while religions may differ, everyone shares common ancestors. “There is no need for anyone to fear the concept of a ‘Hindu Rashtra’. Our ancestors were Sanatani Hindu Arya-Vedics,” he said.
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Ramdev further said that if a Hindu Rashtra were established, Muslims should “embrace the traditions of their ancestors”. “You may keep a beard or shave it off, wear any attire you choose, but maintain the character of your ancestors. There is no danger in Hindustan for Muslims or Christians,” he added.
Opposition parties hit back
His remarks triggered sharp political reactions. Congress leader Salman Khurshid questioned the contradiction in Ramdev’s remarks. “If everyone is Sanatani, then why are attempts being made to create so many divisions? Accept everyone as Sanatani instead of creating divisions,” he said.
AIMIM national spokesperson Waris Pathan said India is governed by the Constitution, not the idea of a Hindu Rashtra. “This country runs on the Constitution and will continue to do so. India has not been declared a Hindu nation. Respect the Constitution and stop spreading hatred,” he said.
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Samajwadi Party leader Fakhrul Hasan Chaand alleged that such statements were meant to divert attention from public issues. He claimed the BJP was promoting the Hindu Rashtra narrative to avoid accountability on pressing challenges facing the country.
NCP (Sharad Pawar) spokesperson Naseem Siddiqui also criticised the remarks, saying India is a secular nation founded on equal respect for all religions. He said people are free to practise their faith and warned that such statements could harm the country’s unity and social harmony.