Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a ‘Bhoomi Poojan’ ceremony for a Rs 100-crore temple dedicated to the 14th-century mystic poet and social reformer Sant Ravidas in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district. The event was marked by the presence of a large crowd, and it holds significance in light of the upcoming assembly polls in the state.
Second Visit to MP Before Assembly Polls
This visit marks PM Modi’s second appearance in the BJP-ruled state of Madhya Pradesh in just over a month. Scheduled assembly polls in the state are due by the year-end. On a previous visit, Modi interacted with tribal leaders, women from self-help groups, and young football players in Shahdol district.
Strengthening Ties with Dalits
The temple’s foundation stone laying ceremony is not only a religious event but also a political one. Sant Ravidas has a nationwide following, particularly among a section of Dalits. This event is part of the ruling party’s ongoing ‘Samrasta (harmony) Yatras’, aimed at connecting with Dalits ahead of the crucial polls.
Yatras and Gathering Momentum
The BJP has organized ‘Samrasta Yatras’, where participants bring soil from thousands of villages and water from various water bodies, including sacred rivers. These yatras have started from different parts of the state and are set to culminate in Sagar. The party aims to connect with different sections of society, especially Dalits, through these yatras.
Dalit Influence in Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh has 35 assembly seats reserved for Scheduled Castes, out of a total of 230. In the previous elections, the BJP secured 18 of these seats, while the Congress won 17. The saffron party’s efforts to strengthen its base among Dalits include building a Rs 3.5-crore Sant Ravidas Temple in Maihar, Satna district.
Impact of Bhakti Movement
Sant Ravidas, a prominent figure in the medieval bhakti movement, holds a special place in the hearts of Dalit followers. This movement, characterized by devotion and social reform, has led to Sant Ravidas having a significant influence among the SC population in Madhya Pradesh.
Preceding Electoral Success
In the 2018 assembly polls, the BJP performed well in the impoverished Bundelkhand region, encompassing districts like Sagar, Chattarpur, Tikamgarh, Niwari, Damoh, and Panna. Of the 26 assembly seats in this region, the BJP won 15, with the Congress securing 9. This success underscores the party’s regional influence.
The Hindustan Herald Is Your Source For The Latest In Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Breaking News, And Other News. Please Follow Us On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, And LinkedIn To Receive Instantaneous Updates. Also Don’t Forget To Subscribe Our Telegram Channel @hindustanherald
