Kolkata: Questionning the BJP’s origin, chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday described the party’s use of saffron colour as “fake”. The MLAs, MPs and ministers flaunt their saffron attire and at the same time enjoy all pleasures of life, she said.
The Trinamul Congress supremo was speaking at a programme after inaugurating the first Skywalk of the city at Dakshineswar Kali Temple on the banks of river Hooghly.
Referring to the BJP, she wondered, “They are now teaching us about Hinduism after emerging suddenly 20-25 years ago. Were they born during the time of Rig Veda or Sama Veda or Yajur Veda? Neither they have learnt the rituals of Hinduism nor do they know anything about it. One cannot become a saint by wearing saffron attire. His mind has to be like a saint’s.”
Ms Banerjee alleged, “Saffron dresses are sold on the roads also. All do not wear it. Those who wear it know that it symbolises sacrifice and dedication for a goal. Now look at the BJP’s use of saffron. They travel, eat around and give lectures only. They do everything. Their saffron is a fake one. The original saffron is what is worn by people like Subiranandaji and those of the Bharat Sevashram Sangha.”
Lashing out at the BJP, Ms Banerjee claimed, “The real saffron is what is worn by the monks and saints who perform prayers living in forests, hills and ashrams keeping themselves away from greed. But they (read BJP) want to become MLAs, MPs and ministers and enjoy themselves. At the same time, they want to flaunt their saffron attire. Can both happen simultaneously? No, this does not go hand in hand.”
The CM also announced building a Skywalk in Kalighat Temple near her residence. “I ask Bobby to think about building a Skywalk for Kalighat. We have already created a development plan for it. The stretch has been expanded. More has to be done. The Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority would carry out a survey there in consultation with the development board members,” she added.
She also accused the Opposition parties of fighting tooth and nail to foil the project.
