VHP slams Congress for equating Bajrang Dal with PFI in Karnataka election manifesto

New Delhi (India), May 2, 2023: Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has strongly criticized Indian National Congress for equating its youth wing, Bajrang Dal, with the banned organization Popular Front of India (PFI) in its manifesto for the upcoming assembly elections in Karnataka.

The Congress manifesto stated that it would take “decisive action” against organizations like Bajrang Dal and PFI, including banning them. The VHP called the comparison “unfortunate” and vowed to answer the challenge “through all democratic ways.” The Bajrang Dal is set to stage a protest outside the Congress’ Delhi office.

Surendra Jain, the international general secretary of the VHP, said in a video statement that every member of the Bajrang Dal was dedicated to serving the country and society, while the world is aware of PFI’s activities. He also accused Congress of having a hidden agenda and exposing it through its poll promise. Jain added that the people of the country would not accept the comparison and that the Bajrang Dal and its activists would take it as a challenge.

VHP national spokesperson Vinod Bansal also slammed the Congress, stating that the party was being rejected all over the country and daydreaming of banning Bajrang Dal. He further added that the Congress manifesto itself would become a factor in the party’s end. The VHP leader warned that if Congress intends to drag Bajrang Dal into politics, they will respond to it in that arena.

The VHP’s strong reaction to the Congress’ manifesto reveals the growing polarization of Indian politics along religious lines, particularly in the run-up to state elections. The BJP has been accused of promoting Hindu nationalism, and the Congress’ manifesto is an attempt to appeal to minority communities.