Buddhist community leaders have voiced their support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi following remarks made by Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge regarding PM Modi’s affiliation with Buddhism.
Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena, founder and president of Mahabodhi International Meditation Center, expressed appreciation for PM Modi’s efforts on behalf of the Buddhist community in India, noting that previous governments had not shown the same level of support.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to PM Narendra Modi for his contributions to the Buddhist community in India. Previous administrations did not prioritize the Buddhist cause to this extent. PM Modi has significantly advanced Buddhism, including laying the foundation stone for the International Buddhist Centre in Lumbini and facilitating the transportation of Buddha relics to countries like Thailand. He consistently promotes Buddhism, even addressing it at the United Nations,” Sanghasena remarked.
Another Buddhist Monk, Norbu Negi from Himachal Pradesh’s Dharamshala, countered claims that PM Modi lacks faith in Buddhism, highlighting his annual birthday phone call to the Dalai Lama and the support provided by the Modi government and party members during Buddhist events.
“It is incorrect to suggest that PM Modi lacks faith in Buddhism. He regularly connects with the Dalai Lama on his birthday, and his government and party members actively assist us during Buddhist functions,” Negi stated.
The controversy arose from comments made by Congress leader Kharge during an interview with News 24, where he questioned PM Modi’s commitment to Buddhism, citing examples such as the inauguration of a Buddha Vihar and the construction of the Ram Temple.