GUWAHATI, Aug 6 - Welcoming the laying of foundation of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today called upon all sides to forget the �bitterness� and to move ahead for unitedly building a better India.
�The day of bhoomi pujan, August 5, 2020, will undoubtedly be remembered as a day of great national importance as it brings an end to the bitter conflict between two parties of the dispute belonging to two different religions. Lord Ram belongs to everyone, irrespective of caste, creed or religion. Lord Ram is the embodiment of the best human values of kindness, compassion and essence of justice. Besides, Lord Ram is the symbol of national unity, integrity and social justice,� Gogoi said.
He added that there is a feeling of insecurity at present among the minorities, Dalits and some other sections and therefore, all need to follow in the footsteps of Lord Ram to establish a peaceful and harmonious society.
�On this occasion we remember Mahatma Gandhi, who was a Ram bhakt and who always dreamed and fought for social harmony, peace and tranquility. In addition, we are also remembering former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was the first to break the lock of the then Babri Masjid at Ayodhya to facilitate Hindus to offer prayers at the spot,� Gogoi said.
He accused the ruling BJP of using the name of Lord Ram for narrow political gains.
�This exposes their intention of capturing political power only and proves that they have no commitment towards Lord Ram�s ideology and philosophy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also talked about Lord Ram�s ideology of social harmony, which is the need of the hour. To follow the ideals is much more important than merely undertaking construction of the temple. We want progress, peace and amity in India so that everyone can gave a good and dignified life. Hindutva divides people, whereas Hinduism represents India�s composite culture which embraces all, irrespective of caste and creed. Let the bitterness between the two groups of Babri Masjid-Ram Temple conflict be buried and a new beginning commence to build a vibrant, modern and progressive India by adequately dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, solving the economic problems, and creating jobs and livelihoods for millions of poor and vulnerable people,� said the senior Congress leader.
