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Politics
BJP MLA’s ‘Bring your mothers, sisters’ remark on Muslims at Navratri garba sparks outrage
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 22 Sep 2026, 06:32 PM
👁 13
A BJP legislator’s invitation for Muslims to bring their mothers and sisters to Navratri garba gatherings has provoked sharp criticism from community leaders and political opponents.
During the Navratri season, a BJP Member of the Legislative Assembly urged Muslim families to attend garba events accompanied by their mothers and sisters. The statement, made in a public forum, was intended to promote communal harmony but quickly drew backlash.
Several community representatives condemned the remark, arguing that it politicised a religious celebration and could inflame communal sensitivities. Opposition parties also seized on the comment, demanding an apology and labeling it as an attempt to score political points.
The MLA has not yet issued a formal clarification, while local authorities reported no immediate disturbances linked to the controversy. The episode underscores the delicate balance politicians must maintain when addressing inter‑faith participation in cultural festivals.
Several community representatives condemned the remark, arguing that it politicised a religious celebration and could inflame communal sensitivities. Opposition parties also seized on the comment, demanding an apology and labeling it as an attempt to score political points.
The MLA has not yet issued a formal clarification, while local authorities reported no immediate disturbances linked to the controversy. The episode underscores the delicate balance politicians must maintain when addressing inter‑faith participation in cultural festivals.