A fresh controversy has erupted in Madhya Pradesh after Umang Singhar, leader of the opposition of the state, said "tribals are not Hindus".
Speaking at an event in Chhindwara district, including a meeting of the Tribal Development Council and the National Karamdar Puja programme, the leader accused the BJP and RSS of attempting to impose Hindu identity on the communities.
“I have said this many times that tribals are not Hindus. This is my belief and the sentiment of the tribal society. We have our own customs, culture and way of life. If we worship crops, trees and nature, why should the BJP have a problem?” Singhar said.
The Congress MLA stated that history shows Adivasis are the original inhabitants of this country. "The RSS and BJP are trying to prevent tribals from practising their traditions."
Singhar clarified his position, stating that his remarks were not an attack on any religion. “We do not disrespect anyone. I believe in Hinduism, but the BJP wants to pursue its own agenda. To date, no Sarsanghchalak of tribal origin has been appointed in the RSS,” he said, emphasising that every community has the right to preserve its cultural heritage.
His comments have drawn sharp criticism from the ruling BJP. Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey described Singhar's statements as “harmful to social harmony and unity,” and he demanded an apology.
“This statement attempts to divide society, and he should apologise to the tribal community,” Uikey stated while speaking in Betul.
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