VHP Accuses Opposition of Disrupting Hindu Festivals, Urges Vigilance Ahead of November 1 Rally

VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal urged citizens to remain vigilant against what he described as “anti-India and anti-Hindu” activities by certain people and organisations. His remarks came amid appeals from traders to postpone the proposed rally until after the Diwali celebrations.

In a post on X, Bansal accused INDIA bloc leaders of disregarding concerns raised by the trading community and criticised their decision to proceed with the demonstration.

“INDI leaders, refrain from attacks on Hindu festivals and the economy in the name of protests,” he wrote, alleging that the appeal to defer the rally had been rejected.

Bansal also targeted the Congress, pointing out that November 1 coincides with Ahoi Ashtami, a Hindu fasting festival observed by mothers for the well-being and longevity of their children.

VHP Raises Concerns Over Festival Disruptions

The VHP spokesperson alleged that the Opposition’s protest plans threatened to disrupt businesses, religious observances and the festive atmosphere in the national capital.

He claimed that earlier attempts had been made to cast a shadow over Navratri and Dussehra celebrations and alleged that similar concerns had now arisen ahead of Diwali.

Calling on citizens, particularly members of the Hindu community, to remain alert, Bansal accused groups he described as “Congresi, Communist, and Communalist Jihadi” of conspiring against Hindu society and India’s economic interests.

He also warned that society would eventually respond to what he characterised as attempts to undermine religious traditions and the national economy.

The allegations were made by the VHP spokesperson in the context of the ongoing political dispute over the INDIA bloc’s proposed demonstration. The Opposition has maintained that its campaign concerns electoral integrity and its demand for action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Rahul Gandhi Reaffirms Rally Plans

The VHP’s criticism follows Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi’s statement on Monday that the rally would go ahead at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan on November 1, shortly before Diwali.

Addressing traders in a post on X, Gandhi said the Congress had heard their concerns but linked the proposed demonstration to allegations of electoral malpractice and the need for accountability.

He also accused the government of disrupting public life through restrictions on metro services and roads, and demanded the removal of Gyanesh Kumar, whom he referred to as “accused no. 4”.

Gandhi said the protests would stop if Prime Minister Narendra Modi removed Kumar from his position.

Traders’ Body Seeks Postponement

The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) renewed its appeal to Gandhi on Tuesday, asking the Congress leader to reschedule the rally until after the Diwali festivities.

The organisation also sent a copy of its letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, urging him to take up the matter with other INDIA bloc constituents.

The traders’ body has expressed concern about the potential impact of a large political gathering on commercial activity during the festive period.

With the Opposition maintaining its position and traders continuing to seek a postponement, the proposed November 1 rally has become the focus of a wider political debate over protest rights, business interests and the timing of public demonstrations during the festival season.