Rajesh Kumar Sethi, Nagaland Congress leader and AICC Minority Department National Coordinator, condemned Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s recent remarks, criticizing them as a deliberate attempt to create division and fuel communal hatred.
In a statement, Sethi sharply criticized Adityanath’s comments, which sought to pit religious practices against cultural celebrations. The remarks echoed those of a Sambhal police officer, who suggested that people could perform Friday prayers at home rather than attend the mosque, and even advised not avoiding Holi colors while at the mosque. Adityanath defended the officer’s comments, calling him a “pehelwaan” and stating that some may find his remarks unappealing.
Sethi addressed the remarks directly, emphasizing that India has always been a land of unity, diversity, and peaceful coexistence. “Holi and Friday prayers have been observed side by side for centuries, and no political force should be allowed to create artificial divisions among citizens for electoral gains,” Sethi stated.
He further asserted that leaders in constitutional positions should act as unifiers, not instigators of communal discord. “At a time when India needs inclusive governance, economic progress, and social harmony, such toxic rhetoric distracts from critical issues like unemployment, inflation, agrarian distress, and declining social justice,” Sethi remarked.
Reaffirming the Congress Party’s commitment to an inclusive India under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi, Sethi highlighted Rahul Gandhi’s vision of “Mohabbat Ki Dukan” (Shop of Love) as a contrast to the “Nafrat Ka Bazaar” (Market of Hate) propagated by BJP leaders.
Sethi also praised AICC Minority Department Chairman and Hon’ble MP Shri Imran Pratapgarhi for his ongoing efforts to safeguard minority rights and promote inter-community harmony.
Pratapgarhi’s leadership, according to Sethi, has been crucial in countering divisive politics and reinforcing the Congress Party’s commitment to secularism and justice.
Sethi concluded by urging all citizens, regardless of religion, to reject divisive rhetoric and unite for a just, equal, and harmonious society. He called for support of Rahul Gandhi’s mission to restore love, fraternity, and constitutional values across the nation.