In a recent public event, Union Minister Kailash Choudhary asserted that those who want to live in India should say ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’.
Choudhary, MoS (Agriculture), was speaking at a farmers’ convention in Hyderabad organised by the BJP. The Minister boldly asserted that only those who say “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” (Hail Mother India) have a rightful place in the country. This seemingly innocuous phrase has now become the epicenter of discussions on patriotism, and national identity.
The phrase “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” has deep historical roots. It emerged during India’s struggle for independence as a rallying cry against colonial rule. Over time, it transformed into a patriotic slogan, evoking love for the motherland. But today, it represents exclusionary nationalism.
Predictably, referring to the “language used” by public representatives in Hyderabad, Choudhary said a “lesson should be taught” to them in the time to come and that a government with nationalistic thinking should be formed in the state.
“Living in India, would you say ‘Pakistan Zindabad’,” he asked.
“That’s why I would like to say, if there is any such person who does not say ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’ and does not have faith in Hindustan and Bharat and keeps faith in ‘Pakistan Zindabad’, he should go to Pakistan. There is no need here,” he said, he further stated.
It is “necessary” for the country to have a nationalist ideology in the region, he said, adding that the country should be strengthened with collective efforts.
The farmers’ convention was organised by the BJP on Saturday on the occasion of the union cabinet recently approving the terms of reference of the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal that will govern the division of the river water between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
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