In the midst of Odisha's election season, BJP's Lok Sabha candidate Sambit Patra sparked controversy by asserting that "Lord Jagannath is Modi's devotee" after a rally with the Prime Minister. This statement was quickly condemned by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who deemed it an insult to the deity and the state's pride. Patra has since apologized, claiming it was a "slip of the tongue" in the heat of the moment. However, this incident highlights the delicate and potentially divisive nature of mixing religion and politics in India.
Sambit Patra's Controversial Statement: Mixing Religion and Politics in India
The recent statement by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Lok Sabha candidate Sambit Patra asserting that "Lord Jagannath is Modi's devotee" has sparked controversy in Odisha, highlighting the sensitive and potentially divisive nature of mixing religion and politics in India.
Background:
Odisha is currently in the midst of its election season, with the BJP hoping to gain ground in the state. The Ratha Yatra, an annual pilgrimage festival centered around the Jagannath temple in Puri, Odisha, is a significant event during this time.
Patra's Statement:
After a rally with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Patra made the controversial statement that "Lord Jagannath is Modi's devotee." This assertion was immediately condemned by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who called it an insult to the deity and the state's pride.
Apology and Explanation:
Patra later apologized, claiming that his statement was a "slip of the tongue" made in the heat of the moment. He clarified that he had no intention of disrespecting the deity.
Significance:
Patra's statement highlights the potential for religious sensitivities to be exploited for political gain. In India, religion plays a significant role in society, and any attempt to mix it with politics can be met with strong reactions.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. Q: What is the Ratha Yatra festival? A: The Ratha Yatra is a Hindu festival in which deities from the Jagannath temple in Puri, Odisha are taken out in a procession on three large chariots.
2. Q: Why is Patra's statement controversial? A: Patra's assertion that Lord Jagannath is Modi's devotee suggests that the deity is politically aligned, which many believe to be disrespectful and divisive.
3. Q: What is the Chief Minister's stance on the issue? A: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has strongly condemned Patra's statement, calling it an insult to Lord Jagannath and the state's pride.
4. Q: Has Patra apologized for his statement? A: Yes, Patra has apologized, claiming that his statement was a "slip of the tongue" and that he had no intention of disrespecting the deity.
5. Q: What is the potential impact of Patra's statement on the elections? A: Patra's statement could potentially alienate voters in Odisha, especially those who are devout Hindus. It could also deepen divisions between religious and political groups.
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