In an appeal issued by the Vishva Hindu Parishad, its working president Alok Kumar said that the VHP was not aligning with any political party but urged voters to cast their ballots considering nationalism and Hindu interests, rising above considerations of caste, religion and creed.
The appeal was made during the ongoing three-day meeting of the VHP Central Board of Trustees and Management Committee held at Karsewakpuram in Ayodhya.
Speaking to the media, Kumar said: "The direction of the next five years depends on the voters of India. We urge them to prioritise nationalism and Hindu interests while exercising their franchise.”
He further revealed plans to encourage voter registration drives and strive for 100 per cent voter turnout.
Another proposal discussed during the meeting, introduced by Kameshwar Chaupal, centered on transitioning towards ‘Ram Rajya’ following the construction of the Shri Ram temple.
This proposal, seconded by Pragya Mahala from Cuttack, aimed to advocate for a society characterised by discipline, culture, dignity, duty and religious adherence.
Kumar emphasised the need to educate individuals about this vision, marking January 22, 2024 as the commencement of the journey towards ‘Ram Rajya’ from the Ram Mandir.
The VHP’s Central Board of Trustees called upon Hindu society to actively contribute to the establishment of a harmonious, prosperous and organised society, rooted in religious values and cultural ethos.
Kumar expressed confidence that with the blessings of Lord Ram, such a society would prioritise the dignity and inclusion of women, environmental protection, and the defeat of disruptive anti-national forces.
Regarding the cases concerning Kashi and Mathura, Kumar said that while the matter was favourable to their cause, a major movement on these issues was not imminent as the legal proceedings were going on.
He also addressed concerns over the increased taxation on Hindu temples in Karnataka, stating that while the VHP does not oppose it, they will engage in a consultative process to express their views.
The statements made during the VHP meeting underscore the organisation’s commitment to advancing Hindu interests and fostering a society guided by traditional values and nationalism, while also emphasising the importance of civic participation and engagement.