Indian Overseas Congress Chairman, Sam Pitroda, voiced his concerns over the prominence of the Ram Temple and religious issues in the country, stating that it disturbs him to see these matters as national focal points. As preparations for the grand opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya progress, Pitroda expressed his worries, emphasizing that the upcoming 2024 election will shape the destiny of India.
“The election of 2024 is going to decide the destiny of the country. It is going to decide the path that India takes in the future. And I am worried about it,” Pitroda said in an interview with ANI.
Expressing discomfort with the increasing emphasis on religious matters, Pitroda highlighted the need to focus on national issues such as education, employment, economic growth, inflation, health, and the environment. He stressed that democracy is being undermined and called for attention to be redirected towards essential matters affecting the nation.
Pitroda particularly expressed concern about the centralization of political discourse around the Ram Temple, Ram Janmabhoomi, and religious activities. He urged for a shift in focus to issues integral to the well-being and development of the country.
While discussing Rahul Gandhi’s recent image makeover following the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Pitroda acknowledged Rahul Gandhi’s intelligence and political acumen. He remarked on the challenges in understanding Rahul Gandhi due to the prevailing political culture in India, where manipulation is often considered a positive trait in politicians.
“I’m worried about it because too much importance is given to religion. I see that democracy is being undermined. It bothers me that everyone thinks that everything good happens in the country because of the prime minister,” Pitroda expressed.
Pitroda drew a distinction between nations based on religion, such as Israel or Pakistan, and those built on democracy, freedom, and human rights, like the United States.
