NEW DELHI, FEB 10: Union Minister of Home and Cooperation Amit Shah on Saturday said that January 22, the day Ram Temple in Ayodhya was inaugurated, marked the beginning of Bharat’s new journey.
Speaking on the Ram temple issue in the Lok Sabha, Shah said India cannot be imagined without Lord Ram. He highlighted that the Supreme Court in its verdict said it “showed India’s secularism”. Shah emphasised the significance of the momentous occasion, expressing heartfelt sentiments shared by the nation’s people.
Shah remarked, “Today I do not want to reply to anyone. Rather I want to speak my heart and the hearts of the people of our nation.” He underscored the long-standing struggle concerning the Ram Temple issue, which found its voice and expression during the tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“The 22nd of January,” Shah declared, “is going to be a historic day for the next 10,000 years.” He portrayed it as a culmination of a movement that began in 1528, symbolizing the hopes and aspirations of millions of Ram Bhakts worldwide. Shah envisioned this day as a re-awakening of India’s spiritual consciousness and the commencement of a journey to restore India’s greatness.
He highlighted the integral role of Lord Ram in India’s social consciousness, resonating with Mahatma Gandhi’s concept of Ram Rajya and its representation in the Indian Constitution. Shah argued that Ram was not merely an individual but a symbol of ideal life, epitomizing virtues that transcend religious boundaries.
Shah also emphasized the widespread influence of the Ramayan across various regions, languages, and religions, underscoring its significance in cultural heritage and spiritual discourse.
Reflecting on the legal battle spanning centuries, Shah expressed gratitude for the fulfillment of the dream of building the Ram Temple. He credited Modi’s leadership for transforming potential conflict into a devotional movement, marked by harmony and reverence.
Shah lauded Modi’s leadership, citing achievements in economic growth, defense, and diplomacy. He hailed Modi’s response to challenges such as border tensions with China and terrorist threats, showcasing decisive leadership.
Shah expressed gratitude to stalwarts L.K. Advani and Ashok Singhal, whose unwavering dedication and leadership played pivotal roles in advancing the Ram Temple movement. He credited their tireless efforts for laying the groundwork that ultimately led to the fulfillment of this historic dream.
In concluding remarks, Shah portrayed the construction of the Ram Temple as a triumph of spirituality over intolerance, symbolizing social unity and cultural rejuvenation.
Amit Shah’s address resonated with the sentiments of a nation celebrating the culmination of a long-cherished aspiration, marking a new chapter in India’s cultural and spiritual journey.