Bhopal, Feb 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a veiled attack on opposition leaders on Sunday, accusing them of “mocking” and “ridiculing” Hindu religion, faith and beliefs with the backing of foreign powers.

Addressing a huge gathering in Garha village of Chhatarpur in Madhya Pradesh, the Prime Minister said that these leaders, who “hate” Hinduism while living in India, are “shackled by slave mentality” and attack Indian culture, traditions, festivals, and progressive philosophy.

“Nowadays, there are some leaders who deride and belittle religion. They are actively working to create divisions among the public. Moreover, foreign influences often bolster these individuals (leaders), attempting to undermine the nation’s unity and religious foundations,” the Prime Minister said.

PM Modi added that there have always been those who harbour animosity towards the Hindu faith, existing in various forms and phases over the centuries.

“Those who have succumbed to a servile mindset consistently target our faith, beliefs, and sacred places. They undermine our religion, culture, and core values, disparaging our festivals, traditions, and customs,” he said.

The Prime Minister said that these individuals, audaciously attack the Hindu religion and culture that is inherently progressive, with the aim of dividing our society and disrupting its unity.

PM Modi was in Garsha village on Sunday to perform Bhoomi Poojan (groundbreaking ceremony) of Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Institute in Garha village of Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh. The facility is coming up with an investment of Rs 200 crore on an area of 10 acres of land.

Referring to Dhirendra Shastri chief priest of Bageshwar Dham as his younger brother, the Prime Minister praised him for promoting the message of unity and commended his commitment to developing the Bageshwar Dham medical facility, which will now provide both medical and spiritual healing at no extra cost.

The Prime Minister stressed that serving all living creatures is a part of Hindu tradition and highlighted that the Bageshwar Dham Center of Spirituality has now become a centre of good health, treatment, and care for all.

PM Modi noted that the centre will offer "Bhajan, Bhojan, and Nirogi Kaya" (Food, spirituality, and good health) at Bageshwar Dham.

Referring to the ongoing Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj, PM Modi described it as a symbol of unity, taking place after 144 years and expected to spread its message to future generations.

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