Bemetara, August 27, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati on Thursday criticised Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over his remarks concerning the Manusmriti, accusing him of repeatedly disrespecting Hindu religious texts and demanding an apology.
Speaking to IANS, the Shankaracharya warned that if Gandhi continued making such remarks without apologising, a campaign could be launched urging Hindus not to vote for the Congress.
“Rahul Gandhi is repeatedly insulting our religious texts. This is absolutely wrong. If he continues to do this and does not apologise, then we will run a campaign. We will urge Hindus to reject the Congress Party and never vote for it,” he said.
Swami Avimukteshwaranand said religious scriptures should not be insulted by anyone, irrespective of political affiliation.
“Whether it is the BJP, Congress or anyone else in this country or anywhere in the world, no one can insult our religious texts. This will not be accepted,” he said.
He alleged that Gandhi had repeatedly criticised the Manusmriti while attributing to the ancient text statements that, according to him, were not contained in it. Referring to remarks Gandhi allegedly made in Parliament, he claimed the Congress leader had said the Manusmriti contained statements promoting rape.
The Shankaracharya said a letter had been sent to Gandhi asking him to identify the passage supporting the claim, but no response had been received despite repeated requests.
Explaining his position, he said the Smritis form part of the Hindu religious tradition along with the Vedas and are connected with the concept of Dharma.
Swami Avimukteshwaranand said the letter to Gandhi had also been made public and that further action, including a campaign, could be considered if necessary.
He, however, maintained that his criticism was not rooted in personal hostility towards Gandhi. He said he had supported the Congress leader when he felt Gandhi had taken positive positions and praised his determination and sustained political efforts.
Defending certain provisions attributed to the Manusmriti, the Shankaracharya referred to its emphasis on a father’s responsibility to protect a newborn girl. He argued that such responsibility should not be interpreted as opposition to women’s freedom.
“If a person like Rahul Gandhi opposes Manusmriti, then tell me, who will protect the girl who has just been born? The father protects her,” he said, questioning who would assume that responsibility if the principle were rejected.
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