Decoding INDIA Bloc’s Boycott of ‘Chunav Navami’ at Ram Mandir: A Strategic Move or Political Statement?

The consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024, has sparked a political controversy as many opposition parties have decided to boycott the event. The parties, which are part of the INDIA bloc, have accused the BJP of using the temple as a political tool to gain votes in the upcoming general elections. They have also questioned the timing and the religious validity of the ceremony, which they have dubbed as ‘Chunav Navami’ or ‘Election Ninth Day’.

Why are they boycotting?

The INDIA bloc, which comprises parties such as Congress, RJD, SP, TMC, and CPM, among others, has expressed its displeasure over the invitation sent by the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which is overseeing the construction of the temple. The trust has invited nearly 6,000 people, including political leaders, religious heads, and celebrities, for the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ or consecration ceremony of the temple.

The opposition parties have alleged that the BJP is trying to appropriate Lord Ram and his temple for its political agenda. They have also claimed that the ceremony is being held in violation of the Hindu scriptures, which prescribe that such rituals should be done on auspicious days like Ram Navami or Akshaya Tritiya. They have cited the statements of some Shankaracharyas who have refused to attend the event on these grounds.

The opposition parties have also argued that the ceremony is being held in haste to coincide with the election season and to influence the voters. They have said that they will not be part of a ‘politically motivated’ event and will instead worship Lord Ram at their homes or local temples.

What is their strategy?

The boycott decision by the INDIA bloc is seen as a strategic move to counter the BJP’s narrative of being the sole custodian of Hindu faith and culture. The opposition parties are trying to project themselves as true devotees of Lord Ram who respect his teachings and values. They are also trying to expose the BJP’s ‘hypocrisy’ and ‘opportunism’ in using religion for electoral gains.

The boycott decision is also aimed at consolidating their core vote base, especially among the minorities and secular sections of society. The opposition parties are hoping to appeal to these voters by showing their commitment to secularism and pluralism. They are also trying to avoid any polarisation along communal lines that might benefit the BJP.

What are the challenges?

The boycott decision by the INDIA bloc is not without risks and challenges. The opposition parties face the danger of being branded as ‘anti-Hindu’ or ‘anti-Ram’ by the BJP and its supporters. They also risk losing some of their Hindu voters who might see the temple as a symbol of national pride and cultural identity. The opposition parties might also face criticism from some sections of their own cadres and allies who might favour attending the ceremony.

The boycott decision might also backfire if the ceremony generates a wave of public enthusiasm and support for the temple and the BJP. The opposition parties might find themselves isolated and irrelevant in the public discourse. They might also lose the opportunity to present their alternative vision and agenda for the country.

How will it impact the elections?

The impact of the boycott decision by the INDIA bloc on the upcoming general elections is hard to predict. It will depend on how the BJP and its allies project the ceremony and how the opposition parties defend their stance. It will also depend on how the voters perceive and respond to the issue.

The boycott decision might help or hurt either side depending on various factors such as regional dynamics, caste equations, media coverage, social media campaigns, and ground realities. The issue might also lose its salience if other factors such as development, governance, economy, corruption, security, etc., dominate the electoral agenda.

The boycott decision by the INDIA bloc is a bold and risky move that reflects their political dilemma over the Ram Mandir issue. It is a gamble that might pay off or backfire depending on how it plays out in public perception and electoral outcome.