'How Can I Refuse Putra-Dharma': Congress Minister In Himachal Pradesh Defies Party, Plans To Attend Ayodhya Ram Temple Event

In a notable departure from the Congress high command's decision to abstain from the Ayodhya Ram temple consecration on 22 January, Himachal Pradesh's Public Works Department Minister, Vikramaditya Singh, stands firm in his commitment to attend the historic ceremony.

Asserting his visit as a son's moral duty to honour his late father's devout connection with Lord Ram, Singh, while opposing RSS-VHP and BJP ideologies, clarifies his allegiance to the Congress ideology, reported Indian Express.

“I remain committed to my earlier statement. I intend to visit Ayodhya not as a politician but as the son of the late Virbhadra Singh, a devout follower of Lord Ram. It’s my moral duty as his son to attend. How can I refuse this putra-dharma (son’s duty)?” he said.

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Similarly, another state minister, Anirudh Singh, expresses his intent to visit Ayodhya in February, reflecting the deep-rooted religious sentiments prevalent in Himachal Pradesh.

Local leaders argue that while the BJP exploits the Ram temple issue for political gains, maintaining reverence for its religious significance is crucial, steering clear of political polarisation.

While some interpret these ministers' decisions as a deviation from the Congress central leadership's stance, the party may face challenges in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

In a region where sentiments around the Ram temple hold substantial sway, the Congress's nuanced approach will be closely watched.

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