World · India Bureau
BJP Minister Pandey Says Ram Transcends Politics, Faith Non-Negotiable
Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Minister Manoj Pandey, who recently switched from the Samajwadi Party to the BJP, outlined his reasons for the political move at a public forum in Ayodhya, emphasizing that religious sentiments cannot be compromised.
LSN India ·

Cabinet Minister Manoj Pandey addressed a gathering in Ayodhya on Tuesday, speaking candidly about his recent departure from the Samajwadi Party and his decision to join the BJP. The senior UP politician used the platform to articulate his political philosophy and the motivations behind his party switch.
Pandey stressed that Ram, as a religious and cultural symbol, belongs to no single political party but rather to the collective faith of millions. He underscored that manipulating or compromising on matters of faith was unacceptable to him, citing this as a key factor in his political realignment.
The minister's remarks come as Uttar Pradesh continues to witness significant political shifts, with several leaders changing affiliations in recent months. Pandey's intervention on the subject of faith-based politics reflects ongoing debates within the state's political landscape regarding the intersection of religion and governance.
Speaking at the public forum, Pandey elaborated on various issues close to his political agenda, connecting them to broader questions about values and representation. His comments are likely to add to discussions about how different parties approach religious sentiments in their political messaging and strategy.