VHP issues ‘Hindus only’ diktat for garba; BJP minister backs organisers’ rights

The Vishva Hindu Parishad on Saturday said only Hindus should be given entry to ‘garba’ events marking Navratri and advised organisers to check the Aadhaar card of entrants for identification to avoid instances of “love jihad”.

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While Maharashtra minister and senior BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule said organisers have the right to set conditions of entry at an event, provided it is being held with police permission, the Congress’s Vijay Wadettiwar slammed the VHP for wanting to “set society on fire”.

Navratri, marked by traditional spiritual dance accompanied by dandiya (striking of colourful sticks) performance where pairs dance in circles, will be celebrated from September 22 to October 1.

“Garba is not merely a dance but a form of worship to please the goddess. ‘They (apparent reference to Muslims) do not believe in idol worship. Only those having faith in the rituals must be allowed to participate,” VHP national spokesperson Shriraj Nair told news agency.