The Government has the authority to declare India a ‘Hindu Rashtra’ whenever it wishes :

Mahant Shankaranand Saraswati (President of Anand Akhara)

Prayagraj – During the Dharma Samsad at the Kumbha Mela, Mahant Shankaranand Saraswati (President of Anand Akhara) said that while the Dharma Samsad can advocate for declaring India a ‘Hindu Rashtra,’ the ultimate decision rests with the Government. When asked if a resolution to declare India a ‘Hindu Rashtra’ would be passed in the coming Dharma Samsad at the Mahakumbha, he responded that the Government has the authority to declare this whenever it deems appropriate. His remarks have reignited discussions about the possibility of a formal resolution on the matter being proposed during the Mahakumbha’s Dharma Samsad.

1. On Muslim participation in the Mahakumbha : Responding to the Uttar Pradesh Government’s decision to allow Muslims to set up shops at the Mahakumbha, he said, “No one is against Muslims; however, preserving the sanctity of the Kumbha Mela requires some restrictions on those whose beliefs do not align with ours”. There is a need to maintain the spiritual purity of the event.

 

2. On the Dharma Samsad : He highlighted the purpose of the Dharma Samsad – “It is necessary to discuss the concept of a ‘Hindu Rashtra’. The Dharma Samsad is a religious programme and should not be politicized. It is essential to protect Dharma, culture and faith, and everyone should actively participate in organizing the Mahakumbha”. He stressed the importance of keeping Dharma and politics separate.

3. On the purity of the River Ganga : He reaffirmed the purity of the River Ganga water – “The water of the River Ganga is essentially pure and suitable for bathing. However, concrete steps must be taken to protect Mother Ganga”.

4. On political campaigns : Regarding AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal’s promise of monthly salaries for priests, he remarked that it was a politically motivated announcement aimed at attracting citizens.

5. On financial aid given by Akhilesh Yadav : He criticized Akhilesh Yadav’s financial assistance to victims of violence in Sambhal, describing it as a politically driven act rather than genuine support.