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BJP MLA's 'Horses Ready' Remark on Garba Participation Sparks Outrage
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Moneycontrol•22-09-2026, 12:55
BJP MLA's 'Horses Ready' Remark on Garba Participation Sparks Outrage
- •Bhopal BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma's comments on Muslim participation in Garba celebrations have ignited a political controversy.
- •Sharma stated, "Muslims want to come to Garba, please come. But why do they want to come for Garba only, come permanently, we’re ready. Come and chant Jai Shri Ram permanently, put tilak on forehead permanently and protect Gau Mata (cows), we don’t have any problem."
- •He further added, "But why only Muslim boys want to come to Garba, let them bring their sisters and daughter also, our horses are also ready."
- •Congress MLA Arif Masood condemned Sharma's remarks, accusing him of disrupting the peaceful atmosphere of a religious and cultural festival.
- •The incident highlights an ongoing debate in Madhya Pradesh and other regions regarding Muslim involvement in Garba and Navratri events, with some groups advocating for identity checks.
Key Questions Answered
Bhopal BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma remarked that if Muslim boys wish to attend Garba celebrations, they should bring their sisters and daughters along as well. His comments sparked a political controversy ahead of Navratri 2026.
Congress MLA Arif Masood strongly criticized Rameshwar Sharma's language, accusing him of promoting confrontation and disturbing the peaceful environment of a cultural and religious festival.
The controversy coincides with a wider debate over Muslim participation in Navratri Garba events, with some organizers and Hindu groups demanding identity checks or entry restrictions.
