The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has intensified its criticism of Arvind Kejriwal, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief, accusing him of misquoting the Ramayana and indulging in appeasement politics.
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari referred to Kejriwal as a "Chunavi Hindu," implying that his religious sentiments are motivated by electoral gains.
Bhandari claimed that Kejriwal's recent remarks exposed his true intentions to the people of Delhi and the nation. The spokesperson alleged that Kejriwal, along with Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, is deeply involved in appeasement politics.
He further accused Kejriwal of opposing the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, offering Delhi’s lands to Waqf, and supporting illegal migrants, including the Rohingya community.
According to Bhandari, Kejriwal is "irritated" by slogans such as "Ek hain toh safe hain" and has demonstrated opposition to Hindu unity. He also accused the AAP leader of neglecting Hindu priests during his tenure, suggesting this as further evidence of his lack of commitment to Sanatan Dharma.
These remarks followed a public address by Kejriwal in Vishwas Nagar, where he recounted a part of the Ramayana to warn slum dwellers against the BJP.
Using the story of Ravana disguising himself as a golden deer to abduct Goddess Sita, Kejriwal compared the BJP to the golden deer, urging people not to fall into their "trap." He warned the residents that BJP leaders only seek votes and would sell their lands if elected.
Kejriwal criticised the BJP for allegedly pretending to care about the slum dwellers, accusing them of being disingenuous. He warned the residents that the BJP's promises were mere deceptions and that their focus was solely on gaining power.
Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva also criticised Kejriwal, accusing him of misinterpreting and insulting sacred texts such as the Ramcharitmanas.
Sachdeva questioned Kejriwal's sudden interest in religious issues, pointing out that he seems to remember temples only when elections approach.
Sachdeva further accused the AAP chief of consistently undermining Sanatan Dharma. He remarked that Kejriwal had previously opposed the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and now appears to be aligning himself with religious sentiments as a strategic move ahead of elections.
The BJP’s criticisms come in the lead-up to the Delhi Assembly elections, which are scheduled for February 5. The counting of votes is set for February 8.