Union Minister Giriraj Singh Launches ‘Hindu Swabhiman Yatra’ Amid Controversy in Bihar
Patna: Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh, who represents the Begusarai Lok Sabha constituency, is set to launch his ‘Hindu Swabhiman Yatra’ from Bhagalpur on Friday, aiming to unite the Hindu community in Bihar. In a media briefing on Thursday, Singh outlined his itinerary, which includes stops in several districts of the Seemanchal region, known for its significant Muslim-majority populations.
The Yatra will commence in Bhagalpur and continue to Katihar via Naugachia on Saturday, then proceed to Purnea on October 20, Araria on October 21, and conclude in Kishanganj on October 22. Singh’s choice of route has sparked controversy, given the religious demographics of the area. However, he emphasized that the focus of the Yatra is to promote Hindu unity and pride, which he believes is necessary to consolidate the Hindu community in these regions.
This initiative is likely to ignite political debates and reactions, particularly in light of Bihar’s communal dynamics, where tensions often flare. The scheduled Yatra has drawn criticism from opposition parties, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has distanced itself from the program. Bihar BJP chief Dilip Jaiswal clarified that the Yatra is not being conducted under the party’s banner.
Leaders from various opposition parties, including JD-U, RJD, Congress, and Left factions, have condemned the Yatra. Singh defended his initiative, stating, “The Hindu community must unite to avoid a fate similar to that of Hindus in Kashmir, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. My Yatra aims to awaken Hindus to the potential dangers of disunity.” He further warned that if Hindus lose their status in the country, it could jeopardize Indian democracy itself.
Singh sought to reassure critics, asserting that his Yatra does not promote illegal activities but serves to protect the identity and survival of Hindus. He also criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of inciting civil unrest in India through provocative statements and a disregard for law and order.
Additionally, Singh labeled the Waqf Board as an “illegitimate child of the Congress,” accusing the party of unconditionally supporting its decisions. His strong and controversial remarks have heightened political friction surrounding the Yatra, particularly in the communally sensitive Seemanchal region.
