Lucknow, May 9 (UNI) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday strongly disapproved Sam Pitroda's remarks regarding race and ethnicity, terming it as 'reprehensible' and demanded an immediate apology from the Congress.
Speaking to the media at his official residence, the CM said, "Sam Pitroda, the advisor and guide of the Congress leadership, espouses the party's historical divide-and-rule tactic."
He highlighted Congress's ongoing efforts to sow division based on colour and ethnicity. "Congress was responsible for the partition of the country in 1947. Even after the Independence, the party committed the sin of dividing the country along caste, regional, and linguistic lines.
"Congress must apologise to the nation for Pitroda's comments," he said.
Pitroda had to resign from the Indian Overseas Congress' chairman post following his racist comment on how Indians from different parts of the country look. The interview to a national daily created a major political row amid the ongoing Lok Sabha polls – prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to condemn him for his statement.
Yogi also warned against attempts to fragment India along geographic lines, citing a dangerous conspiracy by Congress. He condemned the statement, describing it as an affront to the unity of India's 1.4 billion citizens, emphasising the country's enduring spirit.
Pitroda had on an earlier occasion had to face flak after he raised the question regarding the significance of the Ram temple construction in Ayodhya. The Congress had then also distanced itself from the issue, calling it his personal view.
Raking up the last December comments, Yogi said, "Pitroda must refrain from making such comments on the Ram temple. Lord Ram symbolises unity, cultural integrity, and the values of compassion and development for all. The construction of the Ram temple is a matter of immense pride for India, reflecting its cultural ethos and national unity."
The CM said, "Humanity's supporters worldwide, including followers of Sanatan Dharma, are jubilant about the construction of the Ram temple."
He highlighted the positive energy generated by this monumental development and mentioned the visits of numerous ambassadors to Ayodhya, signifying international recognition of its significance.
Yogi expressed confidence in the continuation of this positive momentum.
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