Congress Member of Parliament, Shashi Tharoor, expressed disappointment on Wednesday for not receiving an invitation to the Ram Temple idol-installation ceremony in Ayodhya scheduled for January 22. In a subtle criticism directed at the BJP, Tharoor emphasized his belief that religion should remain a personal matter and not be exploited for political gains. He echoed his colleague Sam Pitroda's stance that temples shouldn't be within the government's purview.

"When questioned by the awaiting press about my attendance at Ayodhya on January 22, I clarified that I hadn't been invited. I firmly believe that religion is a personal attribute and shouldn't be (mis)used for political purposes," Tharoor stated on X.

He indirectly accused the media of aiding those seeking political advantages from the temple event by excessively highlighting it as breaking news, diverting attention from significant governance issues.

"Temple affairs are not the government's concern; pressing matters like unemployment, inflation, public welfare, and national security should be prioritized. However, the media's focus on the temple shifts attention away from these critical issues," Tharoor added without explicitly mentioning the BJP.

The upcoming ceremony has extended invitations to thousands, including politicians and Bollywood figures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his cabinet members are anticipated to grace the occasion. Although Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury have received invitations, their attendance remains unconfirmed.

Meanwhile, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury declined the Vishwa Hindu Parishad's (VHP) invitation, criticizing the government for intertwining religion with politics.

Sam Pitroda, another Congress leader, stressed the importance of segregating religion from politics. He remarked, "It's acceptable to visit temples occasionally, but it shouldn't form the crux of political platforms. The people's concerns revolve around issues like employment, inflation, and technological challenges, not solely the Ram Mandir."

Pitroda emphasized the need for the Prime Minister to address pertinent issues affecting the populace instead of solely focusing on the Ram Mandir, asserting that this aligns with the desires of the Indian citizens.

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