BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma’s Garba remarks draw opposition criticism

Bhopal BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma’s remarks on Muslim participation in Garba events during Navratri have drawn criticism from Congress and AIMIM leaders.

Speaking at a public event on Monday, Sharma said Muslim youths attending Garba events should not come alone but bring their “sisters and daughters”. He also said those attending should chant “Jai Shri Ram” and apply a tilak on their foreheads.

Congress leader Arif Masood called the remarks objectionable and urged Sharma to refrain from using such language. Speaking to PTI, Masood accused the BJP MLA of trying to incite communal passions and said the comments had gone too far.

Madhya Pradesh AIMIM president Mohsin Ali Khan also condemned the remarks and accused Sharma of trying to divide society. Sharma later defended his statement, saying Garba was a festival of the Sanatan community and that people attending should respect its religious character.

(With inputs from PTI)