The Bihar Assembly elections are drawing near, with all political parties actively campaigning. Shankaracharya Avimukteshwarananda has announced a significant move, deciding to field candidates in all 243 constituencies. This decision has caused a stir, especially for the BJP. During his current tour of Bihar, Shankaracharya Avimukteshwarananda declared that he will be fielding ‘Gau Bhakt’ candidates in all 243 seats for the 2025 elections. He explained that despite his efforts to get support from various national parties and advocating for the declaration of ‘Gau Mata’ as ‘Rashtra Mata’ in the Parliament, he has not received a clear commitment. Consequently, his organization will be entering the electoral process to promote religion and cow protection.
Shankaracharya plans to actively campaign for his candidates, urging Sanatani voters to support the ‘Gau Bhakt’ candidates. He will also be meeting local saints to gain their support.
This announcement has not been met favorably by any of the political parties. Both the Mahagathbandhan and the NDA are feeling the pressure. RJD spokesperson Ejaz Ahmad emphasized that religion and politics should remain separate, and people in high religious positions should avoid entering politics, with a reference to BJP’s use of religion. BJP spokesperson Prabhakar Mishra agreed, suggesting that religious figures should refrain from politics. The BJP plans to organize a ‘Sanatan Samagam’ under the name ‘Bande Sanatan’ to connect with the public.
The announcement by Jyotish Peethadheeshwar Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwarananda Saraswati has reignited the debate on Sanatan Dharma and cow protection within the context of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. Sources indicate that several BJP leaders are in discussions with Shankaracharya to dissuade him. If Shankaracharya maintains his stance, the BJP may face potential setbacks in Bihar.