PM Modi's Chadar Offering Sparks Debate on Unity and Divisive Forces

Ajmer - Union Minister for Minority and Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, presented a 'chadar' at the Ajmer Dargah shrine on Saturday on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking the 813th Urs Mubarak of Garib Nawaz. Rijiju personally carried the chadar to the dargah, flying to Ajmer for the occasion, and read out the Prime Minister’s message. The gesture was met with criticism from AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi, who suggested the Prime Minister should focus on addressing issues like court cases against mosques and dargahs.

Syed Naseruddin Chishty, successor to the Ajmer Dargah chief and Chairman of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council, defended the Prime Minister's action, stating that it was a sign of respect and unity. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi moves forward with the principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (Together with all, development for all), taking everyone along," Chishty told IANS. "Today, he sent a chadar to the Dargah out of devotion. He consistently advocates for unity and peace."

Chishty emphasized the significance of the Prime Minister's gesture as a counter to divisive forces. "The mere act of sending the chadar is a slap on the face of those who seek to divide India along religious, communal, and sectarian lines," he stated. Chishty also stated, "He is a political leader, so only he can elaborate on his statement. However, if he has indeed said this, I do not agree. Crores of people have faith in this Dargah, and many send chadars to Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s shrine."

In his message, Prime Minister Modi expressed his greetings to followers of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti worldwide. "Throughout history, our saints, pirs, faqirs, and great spiritual leaders have illuminated lives with their noble and welfare-oriented teachings," the Prime Minister's message read. "Among them, Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti's messages of humanity and public welfare have left an everlasting impact on countless people." The Prime Minister also stated, “Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s dedication to fostering love and harmony in society serves as a guiding light for future generations. The annual Urs celebration plays a pivotal role in strengthening the bonds of unity and mutual respect among people. I am confident that this occasion will motivate everyone to contribute wholeheartedly to the betterment of our nation and society. As I send a chadar to the revered Dargah Sharif on this special occasion, I bow to Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti and pray for the happiness, prosperity, and well-being of all my fellow countrymen."

Owaisi, in a statement on X, criticized the Prime Minister's gesture, stating that sending a 'chadar' was not enough and that Modi should address the concerns of those filing court cases against mosques and dargahs.