'82 Per Cent Of The Nation Is Hindu': Former CM Kamal Nath Flirts With Hindutva Ahead Of Madhya Pradesh Polls

"When 82 per cent of the country's population is Hindu, what nation are we," former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath said in response to a question asked by Bageshwar Dham chief priest Dhirender Shastri.

During a press conference after the Congress-organised Hanuman Katha in Chhindwara district, Kamal Nath expressed his personal view on the demand for a Hindu Rashtra, as reported by The Indian Express.

He stated, “Everyone has their own views. Today if 82 per cent are Hindus in our country, then what nation is this? If 82 per cent are Hindus? I am secular. I am what is written in our Constitution.”

Dhirender Shastri, also known as 'Bageshwar Baba', is known to frequently make controversial statements and advocate for the establishment of a Hindu Rashtra. These views are often expressed during events held at Bageshwar Dham in Chhatarpur district, where he is based.

At the conclusion of the katha, Kamal Nath addressed Dhirender Shastri, expressing their unique relationship as being akin to that of Hanuman.

He assured the priest that their bond would not be easily broken and praised the people of Chhindwara for their respect towards all religions.

In Madhya Pradesh, the Congress seems to have embraced the strategy of using soft Hindutva to counter the BJP's advantage and avoid being labeled as an 'anti-Hindu party'. By doing so, they aim to protect themselves from accusations and maintain a positive image among the Hindu population.

Following the conclusion of the katha, Shastri made a statement to the media expressing his desire to distance himself from politics. He clarified that Gyanvapi is not a mosque, but rather a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

He also addressed the unfortunate violence that occurred in Nuh, describing it as a misfortune witnessed by Hindus in the country, and urged them to rise up and take action.