Sanjay Raut accuses BJP of 'Kidnapping Lord Ram' amid Ayodhya invitation controversy

Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding invitations to the Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya scheduled for January 22, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sanjay Raut intensified his criticism of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Raut asserted that it seems like the BJP has "kidnapped Lord Ram" and claimed that Shiv Sena (UBT) was not extended an invitation to the ceremony. Addressing reporters, the Rajya Sabha member questioned the need for an invitation and stated that after the BJP event concludes, Shiv Sena will visit Ram Lalla.

Sanjay Raut further emphasized Shiv Sena's historical association with Ayodhya, contrasting it with the BJP's involvement. He recalled Sena founder Bal Thackeray taking responsibility for the Babri Masjid demolition in 1992 and highlighted the party's role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.

Meanwhile, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar expressed disappointment over not receiving an invitation to the event, accusing the BJP of playing politics in the name of Ram Mandir. Pawar criticized the ruling party, suggesting that without a concrete program to garner public support, they are attempting to shape public opinion through the Ram Mandir issue.