Religious Leaders Back PM Modi's Forgiveness Appeal, Urge Civil Political Discourse

Prominent spiritual leaders on Saturday welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to forgive those who allegedly used abusive language against him during the recent students' protest at Jantar Mantar, while urging the country to uphold civil political discourse, mutual respect and social harmony.

The reactions came a day after the prime minister, in a video message, expressed pain over abusive remarks directed at him and his late mother during the protest. Despite the incident, Modi urged people to forgive the "misguided children" and instead guide the youth toward constructive engagement and nation-building.

Responding to the appeal, Swami Avdheshanand Giri, Acharya Mahamandleshwar of the Juna Akhara, said abusive language against public figures was contrary to Indian culture, democratic values and the Sanatan tradition. He stressed that ideological or political differences should never be expressed through personal insults, adding that democracy flourishes through respectful dialogue rather than hostility. Giri also highlighted reforms aimed at making the education system more transparent and student-centric, while praying that those involved would contribute positively to society.

Swami Chidanand Saraswati, president of Parmarth Niketan, praised the prime minister's response as an example of compassion, restraint and dialogue. He said leadership rooted in forgiveness strengthens social cohesion and urged young people to rise above misconceptions and dedicate their energy to building the nation.

Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, head priest of Bageshwar Dham, condemned the remarks directed at the prime minister's late mother, describing them as inappropriate and calling for respect toward motherhood and family values.

Several other religious leaders, including Swami Rasik Maharaj, Swami Kailashanand Giriji Maharaj, Mahamandaleshwar Shakaranand Saraswati, Swami Vasudevanand Bharati and Swami Dipankar, also denounced abusive language while supporting the prime minister's conciliatory response.

Collectively, the spiritual leaders stressed that respectful public discourse, democratic values and social harmony are essential for a healthy democracy, urging citizens particularly the youth to reject hostility and contribute positively to the nation's progress.