‘Bring your sisters & daughters, our boys are also ready’: BJP MLA’s remark on Muslims attending Garba sparks row

According to a report by Alt News, Rameshwar Sharma, a BJP MLA representing the Huzur constituency in Bhopal, has sparked controversy following remarks made regarding the participation of Muslims in upcoming Navratri Garba events. Speaking at a public gathering on Monday, September 21, Sharma addressed the issue of religious attendance at the traditional dance festivals, which are scheduled to take place in approximately one month.

During his address, Sharma suggested that if members of the Muslim community wished to attend the Garba festivities, they should bring their sisters and daughters along with them. He further added, 'our boys are also ready,' a comment that has been interpreted by critics as an inflammatory provocation. The remarks have drawn significant attention due to the sensitive nature of religious integration and public festivities in the region.

This statement comes amid ongoing debates in various parts of India regarding the inclusion of non-Hindus in Navratri celebrations. While supporters of the MLA argue he is emphasizing cultural boundaries, opponents have characterized the statement as divisive and potentially inciting communal tension. As of now, there has been no formal response from the BJP leadership regarding the MLA's specific choice of words, though the comments continue to circulate widely on social media platforms.