Bhagwat bats for ‘grand temple’ in Ayodhya

RSS leader says it is a “pious objective that does not oppose anyone”.

Kolkata: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat addressing at a programme in Kolkata on Wednesday. PTI Photo by Ashok Bhaumik(PTI12_2_2015_000343B)

Describing Lord Ram as the symbol of the country's values that bring about unity in diversity, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Wednesday said “a grand Ram temple” needs to be built at Ayodhya.

“The temple is there [Ayodhya] but a grand temple needs to be built... when and how the opportunity will come no one knows, but we have to be prepared,” Mr Bhagwat said here.

The RSS Sarsanghachalak, who was speaking at an event organised by Ram-Sharad Kothari Smriti Sangha, said construction of the temple is a “grand and pious objective that does not oppose anyone.” Ram and Sharad Kothari were ‘kar sevaks’ killed during the Babri Masjid demolition in Ayodhya in 1992.

“This is not question of a temple. Temple can be many but this is the birthplace of the one who symbolises country's culture,” the RSS chief said.

Arguing that attack on any country is directed at its “core strength”, Mr.Bhagwat cited the example of September 11 attacks on the United States, saying they were conducted to weaken its economy.

“Those who wanted to teach America a lesson did not attack any church but attacked the twin towers to target its economy,” he said, adding that centres of Indian culture were similarly targeted.

Mr.Bhagwat said the attacks on Indian temples “by foreigners were aimed at targeting the core values of society.”