In a move that could potentially reshape the religious and political landscape of Bihar, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati has launched a new political campaign focused on Sanatan Dharma and cow protection. On Friday, the Shankaracharya made a significant announcement in Munger, declaring that independent candidates who are committed to cow-worship will contest elections in all 243 assembly constituencies of Bihar. The campaign, called the Gau Voter Sankalp Yatra, is designed to bring together Sanatan Hindus around the central issue of declaring the cow as the ‘mother of the nation’.
A Campaign Centered on Cow Protection and Sanatan Dharma
While addressing his followers upon his arrival in Munger, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand made it clear that the campaign would focus primarily on the protection of the cow, which he believes is integral to the foundation of Hindu society and culture. He said that the protection of Sanatan Dharma could only be ensured if the cow was safeguarded, asserting that cow protection goes beyond a matter of religious belief—it is the very bedrock of their cultural identity.
“The protection of Sanatan Dharma is only possible if we protect the cow,” Shankaracharya stated. “Cow protection is not just a matter of faith; it is the foundation of our society and culture.” This statement underscores his commitment to framing cow protection as a national cause rather than a localized issue, thus attempting to rally Hindus in Bihar and across India under this cause.
The Shankaracharya revealed that he would personally campaign for candidates who were devoted to the cause of cow protection. He urged voters to support these candidates in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, encouraging them to choose individuals who would prioritize this cause and work towards declaring the cow the ‘mother of the nation’.
Dissatisfaction with Political Parties’ Silence on Cow Protection
Before taking the decision to start his own political movement, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand had made attempts to engage with the leadership of national political parties. He reached out to the headquarters of several major parties in Delhi, asking them to clarify their stance on cow protection and the importance of declaring the cow as the national mother.
However, according to the Shankaracharya, none of the political parties took a definitive stand on the issue. “We met representatives of national parties and requested that they express their views in Parliament. But none have taken a stand. Therefore, we are now compelled to field our own cow-worshipping candidates,” he said.
This frustration with the lack of action on cow protection by the established political parties has led the Shankaracharya to take matters into his own hands. He emphasized that his candidates would be committed to this cause, and once the nomination process begins, a list of those contesting under his guidance will be released to the public.
The Political Context of Sanatan Dharma in Bihar
The entry of Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand into Bihar’s electoral discourse coincides with a period when religious identity and symbolism are becoming increasingly significant in the state’s political conversations. With the Bihar Assembly elections approaching in November, his campaign could potentially appeal to conservative Hindu voters, particularly in rural regions where the issue of cow protection holds deep cultural resonance.
Bihar, known for its diverse electorate, has seen an increasing trend of identity-based politics in recent years. Political analysts suggest that Shankaracharya’s campaign might have an impact on this ongoing political dynamic. His stand on cow protection could especially resonate with the rural electorate, who are often deeply attached to religious and cultural issues. As a result, the campaign could serve to fragment the vote base of existing political alliances like the NDA (National Democratic Alliance) and the Grand Alliance.
Shailendra Yogiraj Sarkar, the national media in-charge of the Shankaracharya’s campaign, expressed that the movement had received overwhelming support from devotees and rural Sanatan groups. “People see this as a sacred mission, not merely a political one,” he remarked. This statement reflects the growing momentum behind the campaign, which appears to be gaining traction among various sections of society.
The Role of Religious Leaders in Bihar’s Politics
Historically, Bihar’s political landscape has not been dominated by religious leaders, despite the state’s rich cultural and religious diversity. However, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand’s stature as a spiritual leader and the well-organized nature of his campaign could bring a new dimension to the electoral discourse in the state. His campaign could become a significant talking point, especially as Bihar prepares for its elections.
Political observers in Patna have noted that while religious figures in Bihar have typically been more influential at the regional level, the scale of Shankaracharya’s movement could change that. His leadership and the structure he has built around the Gau Voter Sankalp Yatra might allow him to challenge the traditional political structures in the state. With the elections nearing, this campaign could prove to be a significant factor in shaping voter sentiment.
Gau Voter Sankalp Yatra: Mobilizing Voters Around Cow Protection
The Gau Voter Sankalp Yatra aims to rally Hindus around the common cause of cow protection and the promotion of Sanatan Dharma. The campaign not only seeks to address the issue of cow protection but also aims to instill a sense of responsibility among Hindus to safeguard their cultural values. By calling for the cow to be declared the ‘mother of the nation’, the Shankaracharya is emphasizing the importance of preserving Hindu traditions and values within the political framework of India.
In the Yatra, Shankaracharya has set out to reach as many constituencies as possible across Bihar. His message is clear: voters should elect representatives who are dedicated to preserving the cultural and religious values of Hinduism, particularly with regard to the cow. His call for a separate group of independent candidates who will focus solely on this issue aims to fill a gap he believes has been neglected by the existing political parties.
A Divisive Issue in the Political Arena
While the campaign for cow protection has gained a strong following in certain sections of society, it is also a divisive issue in Indian politics. The question of cow slaughter and protection has been a point of contention, especially in states where the political landscape is deeply influenced by secular and progressive ideologies. This creates the potential for Shankaracharya’s movement to stir controversy and spark heated debates.
The campaign is also expected to raise questions about the role of religion in politics. As Bihar approaches its assembly elections, political parties across the spectrum will need to navigate the complex intersection of religion, culture, and governance. Shankaracharya’s efforts to bring Sanatan Dharma to the forefront of political discussions will likely challenge the boundaries between religious identity and electoral politics.
Future of the Sanatan Dharma Movement in Bihar’s Political Landscape
Looking ahead, the Shankaracharya’s campaign could become an influential force in Bihar politics, especially if it gains the support of rural voters who strongly identify with religious and cultural causes. If successful, this movement could signal the rise of a new form of identity politics in the state. It remains to be seen how political parties will react to this growing influence and whether it will lead to new political alliances or realignments.
In any case, the Gau Voter Sankalp Yatra and its focus on cow protection have made an impact on Bihar’s electoral discourse. Whether or not this movement results in tangible political success, it is already contributing to the shaping of the state’s electoral narrative as the November elections approach.
Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati’s entry into Bihar’s political arena with his Sanatan Dharma and cow protection campaign marks a new chapter in the state’s electoral history. His determination to field independent candidates dedicated to the cause of cow protection reflects his commitment to Hindu values. As the Gau Voter Sankalp Yatra gains momentum, it will be interesting to see how it influences voter behavior and shapes the outcome of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. Whether or not the campaign can challenge established political structures remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the discussion around religious identity and its place in electoral politics is set to intensify.
