Opposition lacks uniform strategy about attending Ram Temple consecration event; what top leaders are saying?

The opposition appears devoid of a cohesive and uniform strategy regarding attending the Ram temple consecration program in Ayodhya. One faction contemplates attending the event after receiving an invitation, while the other remains uninformed of any such invitation.

Notably, prominent leaders such as Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Adhir Ranjan Choudhary have been extended invitations, whereas Uddhav Thackeray, the chief of Shiv Sena (UBT), has not received any formal invitation. 

Criticism from the opposition is directed towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government for politicizing a religious event. Additionally, there is a lack of consensus among opposition members on this matter.

Reports suggest that the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is selectively sending invitations solely to the heads of political parties, excluding Chief Ministers.

Sukhu expresses steadfast faith in Lord Ram

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, a senior Congress leader, expresses steadfast faith in Lord Ram. He emphasizes the importance of following the ideals of Lord Ram, irrespective of receiving an invitation. Sukhu also urges against politicizing the event.

Sonia and  Kharge remain undecided on attending the ceremony

Notably, former and current Congress presidents Sonia Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge remain undecided on attending the ceremony, while in Kerala, Left parties and Congress allies criticize the indecision.

Akhilesh Yadav gives a vague response

CPM General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has explicitly stated his refusal to participate, while Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav provides a vague response, stating he will go to the temple whenever God calls.

RJD takes a clear stance, terming the January 22 program as a political exercise. Senior party leader Manoj Kumar Jha emphasizes the party's commitment to communal harmony and criticizes the public display of faith.

Raut accuses BJP of 'kidnapping' Lord Ram 

Shiv Sena (UBT) accuses the BJP of exploiting the Ram temple for electoral gains. Senior party leader Sanjay Raut accuses the BJP of 'kidnapping' Lord Ram and suggests that BJP might declare Lord Ram as its candidate for elections. Uddhav Thackeray intends to attend the function but after the BJP's program, questioning the sanctity of BJP's rallies and campaigning for the event.