NEW DELHI: In an intricate political move, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which is a member of the Opposition INDIA bloc, finds itself at a crossroads, facing the looming threat of being branded ”anti-Ram” and ”anti-Hindu” due to the Congress party’s stance over the Ram Temple inauguration in Ayodhya. To counter this narrative, AAP has decided to hold Sunder Kand recitation in every assembly segment of Delhi. AAP Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj said that the Sunder Kand Paath will be organized on the first Tuesday of every month from now on.
“Earlier, the Sunder kand Paath was organized by party leaders and workers. But now it has been decided to do it every month in a structured manner. From Tuesday, it will be organised in all Vidhan Sabha constituencies of Delhi… We invite the general public also to it…” he said this at the Delhi assembly. The AAP leader went on to add that “Soon, at around 2600 places, Sunder Kand Path and Hanuman Chalisa would be organised. No one can question Ram’s name and devotion to Hanuman. We have no questions about the Ram Temple… The construction of Ram Temple is a matter of joy and pride for us.”
It may be noted that AAP is currently engaged in hectic discussions with Congress for seat-sharing in Delhi during the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, contemplating a distribution of four seats for AAP and three for Congress. However, it is also aware of the electoral repercussions of joining hands with Congress – being seen as an anti-Hindu party.
Sundar Kand For Political Gains?
To navigate the challenging political landscape, AAP is orchestrating the ‘Sundar Kand’ recitation. The underlying strategy is clear: the party aims to carve a niche in the BJP’s Hindu vote share, challenging the perception that it is not as devoted to Lord Ram or the Hindutva issues as the BJP. This move is complemented by AAP’s existing initiatives, such as organizing a free teerth yatra (free pilgrimage) for senior citizens in Delhi, with the Sundar Kand Paath intended to further attract senior citizen voters.
Owaisi Attacks AAP
However, this political manoeuvre has not gone unnoticed, with All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) Chief Asaduddin Owaisi expressing criticism. Owaisi pointedly questioned the timing of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s decision, linking it to the upcoming inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. He emphasized that while Kejriwal remained silent on issues like the Bilqis Bano case and Babri Masjid, he has now shifted his focus to the Sundar Kand recitation, clearly for electoral gains.
BJP Questions AAP’s Move
The BJP has also questioned the AAP’s move to organise the recitation of Sunder Kand, claiming that AAP is indulging in doublespeak. BJP leader Bansuri Swaraj said, “CM Arvind Kejriwal had said from a public platform that he and his family members are disappointed over the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya because CM Kejriwal wanted a school to be built there. Today despite his opposition, a grand Ram temple is being built in Ayodhya and the Aam Aadmi Party which is famous for changing its colours is now donning saffron…”
Kejriwal’s Response To Owaisi
Responding to his criticism, Delhi CM Kejriwal asserted that the decision to conduct the Sundar Kand Paath was made in light of the Ram Temple inauguration on January 22. He clarified that the monthly recitation would take place in all assembly constituencies of Delhi on the first Tuesday of each month. Alongside Sundar Kand, the recitation would also include the chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa.
Kejriwal A Devotee Of Lord Hanuman
Importantly, AAP’s Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chaddha has defended Kejriwal, stating, “If someone comments, what can I do? Kejriwal is a devotee of Lord Hanuman. He seeks the blessings of Hanuman Ji before undertaking any auspicious work. We have served the people of Delhi as Shri Ram Kumar. We do not need a certificate from anyone else.”
As Arvind Kejriwal strategically incorporates religious symbolism into AAP’s political agenda, the move is not without its critics, with opponents questioning the authenticity and timing of this religious event. The unfolding narrative may significantly influence AAP’s standing in the upcoming elections, particularly in the context of the delicate dynamics of religious sentiments in India’s politics.