"BJP will announce Lord Ram As election candidate": Sanjay Raut

Shiv Sena Member of Parliament, Sanjay Raut, stirred controversy with his recent comments ahead of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple inauguration in Ayodhya. On Wednesday, Raut claimed responsibility for the Babri Masjid demolition, asserting it was Shiv Sena workers, not the BJP or Sangh Parivar, who were behind it."Now, the only thing left is that the BJP will announce that Lord Ram will be their candidate for the elections. So much politics is being done in the name of Lord Ram," said Raut while taking a jibe at the centre. He expressed concern over the perceived politicisation of Lord Ram's name. His remarks were also regarding his party's role in the Babri Masjid demolition.

Earlier, Raut accused the BJP of having a selective historical perspective, stating that, for them, history seemingly began in 2014. He sarcastically remarked, "For the BJP, history starts in 2014," and alleged that the Sangh Parivar had no involvement in crucial historical events. Despite Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray not being invited, Raut emphasized that the Ram Mandir belonged to all Hindus, showcasing Shiv Sena's role in the Ram Janambhoomi movement.

The statements by Raut also have political implications within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), potentially causing embarrassment to Congress and NCP, allies in the coalition. These remarks revealed ideological fault lines, especially on the eve of Congress' foundation day rally. Meanwhile, BJP Mumbai president Ashish Shelar rejected Raut's claims, emphasizing the active participation of Sangh Parivar "karyakartas" in the Ram Janambhoomi movement and countering the accusations against the BJP.