Hindu Rashtra demand raised by saints as Chhattisgarh padyatra comes to a close

Hindu Rashtra demand raised by saints as Chhattisgarh padyatra comes to a close

The padyatra, supported by the BJP and right wing groups Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), is seen as a move to polarise and consolidate Hindu votes in the state ahead of the Assembly elections.

The month-long padyatra (footmarch) of Akhil Bhartiya Sant Samiti across Chhattisgarh ended on Sunday at a ground in Raipur city with a demand for “Hindu Rashtra” (Hindu country).

The padyatra, supported by the BJP and right wing groups Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), is seen as a move to polarise and consolidate Hindu votes in the state ahead of the Assembly elections.

Addressing a gathering from the stage, Swami Avdheshanand Giri said: “The day Hindus become kattar (hardcore), the doors of peace and reconciliation will open.”

Rajiv Lochan, another saint, from Chitrakoot said: “Hindu Rashtra will begin from Chhattisgarh and spread in the entire world.” At the event, some persons were converted back to Hinduism, which they termed “ghar wapsi” (returning home).

“During the month-long padyatra, around 200 sant and sadhus (saints) visited villages in all districts of Chhattisgarh along the main roads and spread the message of Hindu pride. They talked about the importance of Hindu Rashtra and said we all are Hindus first and its above all castes. We must unite to fight against conversion,” said Acharya Rakesh,32, deputy president of Chhattisgarh Sant Samiti. He said though they organised the event with help of VHP, they were independent of any political party.

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