Counter Udhayanidhi's remarks on Sanatan Dharma, refrain from speaking on ‘Bharat-India’ row: PM Modi to ministers

NT Correspondent

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday asked his ministers to strongly refute opposition leaders on their controversial comments on Sanatan Dharma and expose them but told his ministerial colleagues to avoid the political row around the Bharat issue noting that it has been the country’s ancient name, sources said.

Modi spoke on the issues during his interaction with Ministers in which he laid down the dos and don’ts to be observed during the G20 summit.

He asked them to remain in the capital during the exercise and discharge any duty assigned to ensure that visiting dignitaries are not put to any inconvenience.

Speaking on the political row after DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin blamed Sanatan Dharma for promoting division and discrimination among people and said it should be eradicated, Modi said parties and leaders behind such statements should be exposed and the truth brought before people.

A source said the PM spoke of Sanatan Dharma’s endurance over the millennia and asked ministers to strongly refute the suggestions made by opposition leaders.

With opposition leaders accusing the government of violating the Constitution after Droupadi Murmu was addressed as “President of Bharat,” ministers were asked to avoid joining the debate.