Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Nov 23: VHP international working president Pravin Togadia on Thursday November 23 asserted that the Dharma Sansad, scheduled to begin here from Friday November 24, was purely to seek out socio-cultural direction for the Hindu community and had nothing to do with either politics or the upcoming Karnataka Assembly elections.

Speaking to reporters here on the sidelines of an exhibition organized as part of the Dharma Sansad, Togadia said, "Dharma Sansad will impact the society. It is being organized with an aim to provide socio-cultural direction, and not political direction. There is no party politics involved. It has nothing to do with politics or elections. We are only concerned about the Hindu community." He was replying to a question on whether the Dharma Sansad would have any political implications.

"Sadhus and saints will discuss issues like untouchability, cow protection, anti-cow slaughter bill at the national level and construction of Ram Mandir. They will provide a roadmap for the Hindu community and chalk out an action plan," he said.

On whether the Ram Mandir would be built at Ayodhya, he said, "Yes, Ram Mandir will be built very soon. The court will decide on the portion of government land, but will pass a resolution on it on the last day of the Dharma Sansad under the guidance of sadhus and saints."

To a question on the issue of separate religious status to Lingayat community, he said, "All are our brothers, hence there is no question of treating anyone as separate."

Sri Vishweshateertha Swamiji of Paryaya Pejawar Math said that the exhibition brought out the richness of Hindu culture and society.

RSS national leader Bhagaiah also spoke on the occasion.