During an election rally in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi vehemently criticized the Karnataka government for its failure to protect a shopkeeper who was brutally assaulted for playing the Hanuman Chalisa at his shop. The incident, which has sparked outrage, was cited by PM Modi as emblematic of the challenges faced by people of faith under Congress rule.

Addressing a public gathering in Tonk-Sawai Madhopur, PM Modi expressed dismay over the suppression of religious freedoms, stating, “Even listening to Hanuman Chalisa becomes a crime under Congress rule.” He highlighted the recent ban on Ram Navami celebrations in Rajasthan, emphasizing the cultural significance of such events in the state.

PM Modi’s remarks coincided with Hanuman Jayanti, a day of religious observance celebrated across the country. He lambasted the Congress for its alleged agenda of wealth redistribution, referring to his previous comments on the matter during a rally in Banswara. The Prime Minister accused the Congress and its allies of resorting to abusive tactics in response to his revelations about their policies. “Congress ko mirchi lag gayi”, he said.

“It is written in their manifesto that they will survey wealth. Their leader had said in a speech that X-ray of wealth will be done,” PM Modi asserted, condemning what he described as a “deep conspiracy” by the Congress to redistribute wealth among select individuals.

The Prime Minister’s statements come amid escalating political tensions ahead of elections, with PM Modi positioning himself as a defender of faith and critic of what he portrays as anti-Hindu policies of the opposition. In response to PM Modi’s accusations, Congress leaders have refuted the allegations, labeling them as baseless and politically motivated.