Vice President Dhankhar Slams 'Misguided Reactions' To Sanatan, Hinduism: 'Originating From Colonial Mindsets'

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Friday remarked that references to Sanatan and Hinduism in India often provoke "baffling reactions" from "misguided individuals."

Speaking at the International Congress of Vedanta at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Dhankhar noted that such reactions arise from a lack of understanding of the profound meaning behind these terms. He criticised those who react without proper comprehension as "misguided souls influenced by a dangerous ecosystem."

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"It is ironic and painful that in this country, reference to Sanatan or Hinduism evokes baffling reactions beyond comprehension," Dhankhar said, as quoted by PTI.

"Rather than delving into the depth and significance of these words, people tend to react impulsively," he added.

The Vice President described such individuals as "misguided souls" driven by "a dangerous ecosystem that poses a threat not only to society but also to themselves."

Dhankhar further pointed out that while global disciplines are increasingly embracing Vedanta philosophy, some within India dismiss Vedanta and Sanatani texts as "regressive."

"This rejection often originates from distorted, colonial mindsets and an insufficient understanding of our intellectual heritage. These forces operate in a systematic and insidious manner," he stated.

On Attacks Against Hindus in Bangladesh

This is not the first time Dhankhar has addressed issues related to Hindutva. In October, he indirectly criticised the attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh following the ousting of Sheikh Hasina.

"They are mercenaries of something that is completely antithetical to human rights. We are overly tolerant, and such tolerance towards these transgressions is inappropriate. Consider if you were one of the victims," PTI quoted Dhankhar during the National Human Rights Commission's foundation day celebrations.

He also described the atrocities as barbaric, highlighting the "torture and traumatic experiences" faced by men, women, and children.

(With PTI inputs)