TNR News Network
Dharamshala
BJP Chief Spokesperson and MLA Rakesh Jamwal strongly criticized Himachal Pradesh Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi for his recent comments regarding the Ayodhya Ram Temple and offerings made at temples. Jamwal said such remarks reflect the Congress leadership’s anti-Sanatan mindset and hurt the sentiments of millions of devotees.
He stated that the Ram Temple is not merely a religious site but a symbol of India’s cultural consciousness, faith, and long struggle. “If there are any complaints or facts, the law and relevant institutions are competent to investigate. But raising baseless questions against the temple and its priests is deeply offensive to crores of devotees,” Jamwal asserted.
Responding to Negi’s suggestion that donations should go to hospitals and schools instead of temples, Jamwal said that while contributing to education and healthcare is commendable, ensuring these facilities is primarily the government’s responsibility. “People pay taxes so the government can provide basic services. If the government fails, it cannot shift the blame onto religious faith and temples,” he added.
Jamwal further questioned how many schools, hospitals, or social institutions Negi himself has supported from his personal resources, stressing that leaders should set examples before preaching to others. He accused the Congress government of weakening the education system by shutting institutions, limiting Sardar Patel University’s scope, and discontinuing integrated courses, forcing students to study outside the state. He also criticized the government’s poor performance in healthcare, claiming that welfare schemes launched by the previous BJP government were either discontinued or diluted, increasing the burden on common families.
Highlighting Negi’s past remarks, Jamwal condemned his statement that “priests who once walked in slippers now travel by airplanes,” calling it insulting and unbecoming of a responsible minister. He emphasized that thousands of saints, priests, and religious leaders across the country are engaged in social service, value-building, and preserving Sanatan culture, and deserve respect.
Jamwal demanded that Jagat Singh Negi publicly apologize to the Sanatan community for his comments. He said the Congress cannot hide its failures by politicizing religious faith, and the people of Himachal Pradesh are well aware of the government’s double standards and will respond at the right time.
