BJP leader Sambit Patra, who is running for the Puri Lok Sabha seat, caused controversy when he mistakenly stated that Lord Jagannath is a devotee of Prime Minister Modi. Patra later clarified that it was a "slip of the tongue" and that he was apologetic for any hurt sentiments. He also stated that he would offer penance as an apology to Lord Jagannath.
Sambit Patra's Controversial Statement: Lord Jagannath, a Devotee of PM Modi?
Background:
Sambit Patra, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, stirred controversy during his election campaign for the Puri Lok Sabha seat in 2019. In a speech, Patra inadvertently stated that Lord Jagannath, the revered deity of Puri's Jagannath Temple, is a devotee of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Details of the Statement:
Patra's exact words were: "Lord Jagannath is also a devotee of Modi ji." These remarks drew swift criticism and outrage from the public, including many devotees of Lord Jagannath.
Clarification and Apology:
Patra later issued a clarification, saying that his statement was a "slip of the tongue" and that he had no intention of offending anyone. He apologized for any hurt sentiments and expressed his deep respect for Lord Jagannath.
Penance Offered:
As a gesture of remorse, Patra vowed to offer penance to Lord Jagannath. He visited the Jagannath Temple in Puri and performed a series of rituals, including reciting devotional hymns and offering a coconut.
Reaction:
Patra's controversial statement sparked a public uproar and became a topic of national debate. Many religious leaders and devotees condemned his remarks as disrespectful and an attempt to politicize a revered deity. The Hindu Sena, a right-wing group, filed a police complaint against Patra for his comments.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. What did Sambit Patra say about Lord Jagannath? A: Patra mistakenly stated that Lord Jagannath is a devotee of Prime Minister Modi.
2. Did Patra apologize for his remarks? A: Yes, he issued a clarification and apologized for his "slip of the tongue."
3. What penance did Patra offer? A: He visited the Jagannath Temple and performed devotional rituals as an apology.
4. What was the reaction to Patra's statement? A: His remarks вызвал widespread public outrage, condemnation from religious leaders, and a police complaint.
5. Is there any connection between Lord Jagannath and Prime Minister Modi? A: No, there is no known religious or personal connection between Lord Jagannath and Prime Minister Modi.
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