Binoy Viswam opposes Tirunavaya Kumbh Mela, BJP hits back
A political controversy has emerged in Kerala after CPI leader Binoy Viswam criticized the RSS for organizing a Kumbh Mela at Tirunavaya. BJP leaders have responded by accusing the CPI of opposing Hindu traditions and attempting to appease extremists.
Why it matters
The clash highlights the ongoing tension between secular political ideologies and religious identity politics in India.
CPI State secretary Binoy Viswam’s remarks against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) holding a Kumbh Mela at Tirunavaya have triggered a political controversy, with BJP leaders accusing him of opposing Hindu traditions.
Speaking at a CPI meeting on secularism near the Gandhi statue at Tirunavaya on Saturday, Mr. Viswam said those seeking to hold the Kumbh Mela there were promoting the politics of Nathuram Godse, who killed Mahatma Gandhi.
Tirunavaya is one of the places where Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were immersed, Mr. Viswam said. Gandhi, not Godse, represented Hindu values, he added, stressing the need for Hindu-Muslim unity.
Mr. Viswam said the CPI respected all religions but opposed making religion part of the nation. He also accused the BJP and RSS of following an ideology influenced by Mussolini and Hitler.
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