Political leaders spar over VHP advisory banning non-Hindus in Garba events

A Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) advisory that only Hindus will be allowed entry to garba events in Maharashtra and the organisers should check Aadhaar card for identification has triggered a war of words between members of the ruling and Opposition parties.

“Garba is not merely a dance but a form of worship to please the goddess. They (apparent reference to Muslims) do not believe in idol worship. Only those having faith in the rituals must be allowed to participate,” said VHP national spokesperson Shriraj Nair and advised organisers to apply ‘tilak’ on participants and ensure that they perform puja before entering the garba events. “VHP and Bajrang Dal workers will monitor the events. Garba is a form of worship, not entertainment,” Mr. Nair added.

Maharashtra Revenue Minister and senior BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule threw his weight behind the Hindutva outfit over its advisory while Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar criticised it as it could disturb social harmony.

“That is their right. The only decisive factor is whether the event has police permission. The organising committees must take decisions based on that,” Mr. Bawankule said.

Responding to the VHP’s move, Maharashtra Congress Legislature Party Leader and former State Minister Vijay Wadettiwar said, “They (VHP) want to set society on fire. They want to divide society over religion and reap political benefits out of it. What the VHP has said is nothing new. The organisation was born with an intention to destabilise the country.” Such a stand by organisations such as the VHP shakes the “unity in diversity” foundation of India, Mr. Wadettiwar said, alleging that it also reflects the stand of the government.