BJP released its poll manifesto today
The BJP today came under attack for promising a Hindu temple at a disputed mosque site in Uttar Pradesh as part of its manifesto for the general election that began today.
The party's much delayed manifesto said it would explore, "within the constitutional framework", the construction of a Ram temple at the site where Hindu activists tore down the 16th century Babri mosque in December, 1992.
(BJP manifesto: development, good governance & 'Ram Mandir')The BJP also mentioned two other controversial promises - the removal of Article 370 giving special status to Jammu and Kashmir and a Uniform Civil Code.
While campaigning for the national polls,
Narendra Modi, the BJP's prime ministerial candidate, has steered clear of these subjects even though they have always been among the party's key poll pledges.
(India Votes 2014: full coverage)The party's inner conflict over a more forward looking vision for India and the agenda dictated by its ideological mentor, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, was speculated to be why the BJP's manifesto was delayed.
Party veteran Murli Manohar Joshi denied it, telling reporters, "Whatever is there is in the manifesto. If you want to write something on the basis of your own perceptions, you are free to do so."
Mr Joshi had earlier reportedly said that the BJP's views on constructing a Ram temple were "non-negotiable."
Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said, "They use 'Ram' for political gains. They use religion in politics. The temple is the BJP's prime commitment."
The party's former ally Janata Dal (United) or JD(U) called the manifesto "communal."
"This is the end of Atal Behari Vajpayee's era," said JD(U) leader KC Tyagi, referring to BJP's seniormost leader and former prime minister, known as the party's moderate face.
The JD(U) ended its 17-year alliance with the BJP last summer, objecting the prominence given to Mr Modi.
"
Munh mein Ram bagal mein chhuri (they talk of God Ram and intend the opposite)," said Samajwadi Party leader Naresh Aggarwal.
Left leader Gurudas Dasgupta commented, "They have again promised the Ram temple. It is definitely to consolidate the Hindu vote in the country."