Gujarat Education Minister Bhupendrasingh Chudasama created a controvery fter writing a congratulatory letter to the yoga ashram run by the rape-convict Asaram’s organisation, called Asaram Trust, for celebrating February 14 as 'Matru-Pitru Diwas' (Mother-Father Worship Day).

Education minister praised the ashram, which had been embroiled in controversy in the past, for its “great work in producing better citizens. The letter is writtern in Gujarati and in the letter he thanked the ashram for hosting its annual Matru-Pitru Pujan Divas" or "worship your parents" day and wished it a success for its "noble act."

The letter reads, “Those who serve their parents and teachers become respectable figures in the society. Your initiative of observing this day is appreciable. Hope that this campaign becomes successful and the students understand their duties towards parents in becoming best citizens. My best wishes for the campaign.”

Meanwhile, the Congress party termed the letter as unfortunate and accused the BJP of trying to garner the support of the people who were still under the influence of the Asaram, ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. On the other hand, minister Chudasama defended his decision by saying  that he has nothing to do with the controversy surrounding the founder and the ashram.”