Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut criticized the upcoming Ram Temple inauguration event organized by the BJP, describing it as 'political.' Raut asserted that his party, Shiv Sena (UBT), would visit Ayodhya after the BJP's program concludes, stating that the event is specific to the BJP and not a national occasion. He suggested that celebrations would have been different if organized by the temple administration.
The inauguration of the Ram temple is scheduled for January 22, with leaders such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expected to attend the consecration ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol. Despite this, Uddhav Thackeray, leader of Shiv Sena, was not invited to the event.
Raut expressed the view that the use of Lord Ram's name for political gains lacked a genuine connection with spirituality. He remarked on the historical association of Shiv Sena with Ayodhya and reiterated that Uddhav Thackeray did not need an invitation to visit Ayodhya.
Union Minister Narayan Rane criticized Uddhav Thackeray, suggesting he should not attend the Ram Temple's inauguration, calling him "crazy" and questioning his credibility on the issue. Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena raised questions about the BJP's historical contributions to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, accusing the party of forgetting Shiv Sena's and Bal Thackeray's role in it. Despite the political dynamics, Ayodhya is preparing for a massive crowd for the consecration ceremony.
