MP Cong LoP accuses BJP, RSS of trying to subsume tribal identity under Hinduism

Facing mounting backlash from Hindu groups, Madhya Pradesh Leader of Opposition (LoP) Umang Singhar accused the BJP and the RSS of attempting to subsume tribal identity under Hinduism, as he argued that tribals are the original inhabitants of the country and emphasised that their right to worship nature should not be curtailed.

He stated that while he respected Hinduism, the ruling party and its ideological parent were seeking to impose their agenda on tribals, which he described as a threat to their distinct culture, traditions and religious practices.

The controversy was sparked by his earlier assertion at a Tribal Development Council event in Chhindwara that tribals are not Hindus, a remark that drew sharp criticism from the ruling BJP and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who accused the Congress of indulging in anti-Hindu rhetoric and called for an apology.

Singhar clarified that his comments were not intended to offend any faith but rather to highlight the need for recognition of the tribal community’s heritage and to demand respect for their distinct identity, irrespective of which party held power.

As the row escalated, Singhar questioned the BJP’s commitment to tribal empowerment, pointing out that no tribal had ever been made RSS chief and alleging that the party sought tribal votes while undermining tribal religion, culture and identity. He maintained that tribals, including the Bhil community to which he belongs, had preserved a separate identity for centuries and deserved equal respect in political and social discourse.

Madhya Pradesh, with 1.53 crore tribals constituting over 21 per cent of its total population according to the 2011 Census, holds the largest tribal population in India, and tribal politics remains a decisive factor in state elections. Of the 230 Assembly seats, 47 are reserved for Scheduled Tribes, making the political positioning of leaders like Singhar crucial ahead of polls.