Kanhaiya Kumar: Invokes Gandhi’s Legacy, Warns Against Politics of Hatred

Kanhaiya Kumar: Congress leader Kanhaiya Kumar on Thursday marked the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi as Balidan Diwas, calling on citizens to reflect on the freedom icon’s lifelong commitment to truth and non-violence. Speaking amid concerns over increasing polarisation in public life, Kumar said Gandhi’s principles remain vital for preserving social harmony and democratic values in the country.

Remembering Gandhi on Balidan Diwas

Addressing reporters, Kumar said Gandhi’s death anniversary is observed not only across India but around the world as a moment of collective reflection. He noted that Gandhi’s message of truth and non-violence continues to offer guidance at a time when divisive rhetoric has become more visible in public discourse. According to him, remembering Gandhi is not a ritual but a responsibility to uphold values that bind the nation together.

Public Observances in Sarguja

Kumar pointed out that in Sarguja, non-political organisations have for several years been organising programmes to commemorate Gandhi’s sacrifice. These gatherings, he said, have traditionally focused on social unity rather than partisan agendas. He described such initiatives as important platforms for citizens to come together and reaffirm shared constitutional ideals beyond political differences.

Call to Confront Divisive Ideologies

Referring to the current political climate, Kumar urged people to collectively resist what he described as the growing influence of divisive thinking. He said Gandhi’s life offers an opportunity to reflect on how democratic means can be used to strengthen the nation. Emphasising peaceful struggle, he argued that progress achieved through dialogue and democratic participation is more durable than that driven by confrontation.

Reflections on Compassion and Faith

Quoting Gandhi’s words on compassion, Kumar recalled the idea that a true Vaishnav feels the pain of others as their own. He contrasted this philosophy with what he described as a trend in contemporary politics where suffering is sometimes exploited for political gain. During his remarks, Kumar also recited the bhajan Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram, highlighting its message of unity and communal harmony as central to Gandhi’s vision.

Warning Against Mixing Religion and Politics

Kumar cautioned that when political narratives are framed primarily around religion, they risk turning into instruments of exclusion and hostility. He said repeated remembrance of Gandhi is necessary to safeguard national unity and integrity. According to him, Gandhi’s emphasis on inclusiveness remains a reminder that diversity has long been a source of strength for the country.

Appeal to the Ruling Party

In a direct appeal to members of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, Kumar said they too are part of the nation’s shared history. He urged them to recognise that India’s political and moral foundations are rooted in truth and non-violence, and encouraged them to follow the same principles in public life, regardless of ideological differences.

Views on Naxalism and Violence

Commenting on a recent statement by Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding the elimination of Naxalism in Chhattisgarh by March 2026, Kumar reiterated his opposition to violence in any form. He said no ideology or pursuit of power can justify bloodshed, adding that his party does not support armed or violent movements, as violence ultimately harms society as a whole.

Housing, Refugees, and Unfulfilled Promises

Kumar also spoke about the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Awas Yojana, under which land and housing have been announced for Hindu Bengali families who fled Bangladesh. While welcoming efforts to provide homes to displaced people, he questioned earlier assurances that every citizen would have permanent housing by 2022. He claimed that many families living in India are still waiting for such support, and said time would tell when the promised development would reach everyone.