In a series of objectionable remarks, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLA Fateh Bahadur Kushwaha has once again ignited controversy, this time targeting Hindu goddess Maa Saraswati. In a press interview, Kushwaha not only insulted Maa Saraswati but also advocated for the removal of her image from school-colleges, suggesting the placement of a picture of Savitribai Phule instead.
During the media address, Kushwaha commented, “It is written in your book that Saraswati is the daughter of Brahma and he married his daughter Saraswati. So who you are worshipping? Of characterless gods?”
“Maa Saraswati was CHARACTERLESS – RJD MLA”
Shame on Hindus who vote for such anti Hindu elements.😡 pic.twitter.com/N3h98XF1ch
— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) December 30, 2023
This is not the first instance of Kushwaha making offensive remarks against Hindu deities. In a previous incident, he referred to Maa Durga as an imaginary character, questioning her absence during the British rule in India and raising doubts about the existence of the 33 crore Gods and Goddesses in Hinduism.
”According to Manuwadis there are 33 crore Gods and Goddesses. India’s population during the British period was 30 crores. When the country was enslaved, where was Maa Durga at that time and why did she not kill the British people? Maa Durga is imaginary. Who are those Manuwadis wrote that Maa Durga fought with crores of army against Mahishasura? What was Maa Durga doing at the time when a handful of British enslaved India?” asked Singh, who represents the Dehri Assembly seat in Rohtas district.
Furthermore, Kushwaha targeted Bhagwan Shri Rama, dismissing him as a fictitious character. He asserted, “There is no god bigger than Lalu Yadav. Lord Ram and all his characters are imaginary. Lalu Yadavji is true Ramayana.” He also questioned the legitimacy of puja organised by Brahmins, labeling them as hypocrites who spread superstition.
The controversial statements by Kushwaha are not isolated incidents within the RJD party. Earlier, Bihar Education Minister and senior RJD leader Chandrashekhar triggered a similar controversy by asserting that revered texts such as the Ramcharitmanas, Manusmriti, and works by M.S. Golwalkar “spread hatred in society.”
Kushwaha has also commented on Bhagwan Shri Rama calling him as factiotious character. “There is no god bigger than Lalu Yadav. Lord Ram and all his characters are imaginary. Lalu Yadavji is true Ramayana. In 1976, the Supreme Court also said that Ramayana and all its characters are imaginary. What is the problem in accepting what the Supreme Court has accepted?” Singh questioned. He also said, “Brahmins who organise the puja are hypocrites and spread superstition,” he said.
These comments by RJD members continue to fuel tensions and provoke outrage within the community, prompting concerns about religious sensitivity and respect for diverse beliefs.
