Bhopal, Sep 22 (PTI) BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma has said that Muslim youths should not come alone to Garba events but bring along their “sisters and daughters”.
The remark by the legislator from Bhopal’s Huzur constituency drew condemnation from the opposition Congress and AIMIM.
Speaking at an event on Monday, Sharma said if Muslims wanted to participate in Garbas orgainsed during the Navratri festival, they must chant ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and apply a ’tilak’ on their foreheads.
“This won’t cause any problem to anyone. Why should only boys come alone? Bring your sisters and daughters as well,” he added.
Congress leader Arif Masood on Tuesday called Sharma’s comments highly objectionable and advised him to refrain from using such language.
Talking to PTI Videos, Masood said, “First of all, Muslims have nothing to do with Garba. Secondly, (as to) the language Rameshwar Sharma is using, I would ask him to mend his ways. Don’t be rude. This is going too far.”
Masood accused the BJP MLA of inciting communal passions and said he often preached hatred, that was why he was called “Nafrati Chintu”.
Mohsin Ali Khan, president of the Madhya Pradesh All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), also condemned Sharma’s statement and accused him of trying to divide society.
He advised the BJP MLA to read the Constitution and seek the opinion of his party colleagues like Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi and Shahnawaz Hussain before making such statements.
Speaking to PTI Videos on Tuesday, Sharma said he stood by his statement.
Garba is a festival of the Sanatan community where Goddess Jagadamba is worshipped, he said.
“This is not entertainment. If Muslims have developed such love and affection for Sanatan (religion), please do not come alone. Bring your sisters and daughters, bring your parents,” he added. PTI MAS KRK
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