A fresh political row erupted on Thursday after Maharashtra Congress leader Nana Patole made a controversial remark likening Rahul Gandhi’s public role to the ideals associated with Lord Ram, drawing an immediate and aggressive response from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The comment came amid continued criticism of Rahul Gandhi for not visiting the Ram Temple in Ayodhya after its consecration.

Responding to questions on the issue, Patole said Rahul Gandhi’s politics is rooted in the principles of justice, compassion, and support for the marginalised—values he associated with the legacy of Lord Ram. Patole clarified that he was not equating a political leader with a deity, but highlighting what he described as a shared moral philosophy focused on standing with the oppressed, farmers, and the underprivileged.

According to Patole, Rahul Gandhi’s emphasis on constitutional values, social justice, and welfare of ordinary citizens reflects the spirit of “Ram Rajya,” which he described as a system built on fairness and dignity rather than symbolism alone. He added that faith is a personal matter and maintained that Rahul Gandhi would visit Ayodhya in his own time, just as Congress leaders in the past had respected religious traditions.

The BJP, however, reacted sharply, accusing the Congress of indulging in what it called “extreme personality worship” while simultaneously disrespecting Hindu sentiments. BJP leaders alleged that the statement crossed a line by invoking religious symbolism for political glorification. Party spokespersons also revisited Congress’s past positions on the Ram Temple issue, accusing it of hypocrisy and selective faith.

Senior BJP leaders said such remarks trivialise deeply held beliefs and questioned why Rahul Gandhi has stayed away from the Ayodhya temple if he truly aligns himself with Lord Ram’s ideals. They further accused the Congress of attempting damage control through religious messaging after years of opposing the Ram Mandir movement.