Bhopal — A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Bhopal's Huzur constituency has drawn sharp criticism for remarks made at a religious event suggesting that Muslim men who wish to attend Garba celebrations should "bring their sisters and daughters" and publicly adopt Hindu symbols.
On Monday (September 21), BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma said Muslims who wanted to come to Garba should chant "Jai Shri Ram" and apply a tilak on their foreheads, and that they should bring their female family members if only men intended to attend. His comments were reported by news agencies and have triggered responses from opposition party leaders and community organisations.
“Muslims want to be in Garba [events]. Why just Garba, come permanently, we are ready. Come and chant Jai Shri Ram, apply tilak on foreheads, and protect ‘gau mata’. And just boys want to come? Bring your sisters and daughters from home. Our boys are also ready.”
Political backlash and concerns over communal tone
The remarks drew immediate reaction from the Congress and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM). Arif Masood, Congress MLA from Bhopal Central, described Sharma as a "hate monger" and criticised the language used, saying it went too far and was rude. Mohsin Ali Khan, state president of AIMIM, called the statement divisive and suggested the BJP MLA should consult his senior party leaders.
Both leaders framed their responses around concerns that such statements could polarise communities ahead of Navratri, a festival that in recent years has seen debates nationally about participation and cultural practices. They urged restraint and adherence to constitutional freedoms.
Legal and constitutional context cited by critics
Opposition comments referenced constitutional protections to rebut the MLA's implied demand that visitors to cultural events adopt particular religious symbols or slogans. Khan specifically urged Sharma to read the Constitution, with critics noting Article 25 guarantees freedom of religion and related practices to all citizens.
No official action or party disciplinary measure was reported immediately following the remarks. The BJP has a record of publicly distancing itself from controversial statements at times, but as yet there is no indication from party offices in Bhopal of any formal response or clarification.
Context ahead of Navratri and local sensitivities
Navratri falls in about three weeks; Garba events are public and attract large crowds in urban centres including Bhopal. In recent years, these cultural occasions have occasionally become flashpoints for political and communal debate. Local activists and community leaders have in the past called for inclusive arrangements and protection of women’s safety at such gatherings.
- Timing: Remarks came about 20 days before Navratri, when preparations and event planning typically intensify.
- Local reaction: Opposition leaders in Bhopal criticised the language as provocative and divisive.
- Legal point: Critics invoked Article 25 of the Constitution to stress freedom of religion and practice.
Responses mapped
| Person/Group | Response |
|---|---|
| Rameshwar Sharma (BJP MLA) | Urged Muslims to chant "Jai Shri Ram", apply tilak and suggested bringing women if men wanted to attend Garba. |
| Arif Masood (Congress MLA) | Called Sharma a "hate monger" and condemned his language as rude and unacceptable. |
| Mohsin Ali Khan (AIMIM state president) | Described the remarks as divisive and suggested Sharma consult senior BJP leaders; urged adherence to the Constitution. |
Local civic groups and festival organisers did not immediately issue statements. Observers said political leaders should take care with public comments in the run-up to large cultural events to avoid misunderstanding or provocation.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions in public discourse over cultural participation and religious identity in Madhya Pradesh. With Navratri pending, stakeholders in Bhopal say dialogue and inclusive arrangements are preferable to statements that could inflame communal sentiment.
Further reactions and any formal party response are awaited as the festival season approaches.
