Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday cautioned against divisive elements, stating that certain leaders are attempting to ridicule religion and sow discord among people. He also alleged that foreign powers sometimes collaborate with these groups to undermine the country’s sovereignty.
Speaking at a public gathering after laying the foundation stone for the Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Institute for Cancer in Chhattarpur, Madhya Pradesh, PM Modi said:
“Today, we see a group of leaders who mock religion, ridicule faith, and seek to divide society. Many times, foreign forces also try to weaken our country and its religious heritage by supporting these individuals. The hatred toward the Hindu faith has existed in various forms for centuries,” he remarked.
His comments come amid a political row sparked by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s recent “Mrityu Kumbh” remarks. Without directly naming anyone, PM Modi criticized those who, in his words, have a “mentality of slavery” and consistently attack India’s faith, beliefs, temples, and cultural traditions.
“These people abuse our festivals, customs, and traditions. They dare to target a religion and culture that is, by nature, progressive. Their agenda is to divide our society and weaken its unity,” he said.
PM Modi also praised spiritual leader Dhirendra Shastri, known as Bageshwar Dham Sarkar, for promoting unity and now contributing to healthcare.
“For a long time, Dhirendra Shastri has been spreading the mantra of unity across the country. Now, he has taken up another noble mission—establishing this cancer institute. This means that Bageshwar Dham will not only be a center of devotion and nourishment but also a hub of health and healing,” he stated.
The Bageshwar Dham Medical Science and Research Institute will feature a state-of-the-art cancer hospital, spanning ten acres. The first phase will establish a 100-bed facility, with the entire project expected to be completed in 36 months at an estimated cost of ₹218 crore.
Expressing his gratitude, PM Modi said, “It is a privilege for me to visit Bundelkhand, the land of heroes, for the second time in a short span. This time, I feel blessed to have been called by Balaji. Lord Hanuman’s grace has turned this center of faith into a center of healthcare as well.”
The Prime Minister is on a two-day visit to Madhya Pradesh, during which he will inaugurate several development projects.
