A political storm has erupted in Madhya Pradesh after Congress Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar once again declared that “tribals are not Hindus.”
Speaking at public events in Chhindwara, he claimed tribals have their own customs, culture, and way of life, and accused BJP and RSS of attempting to impose a Hindu identity on them. He said, “If we worship crops, trees and nature, why should BJP have a problem?”
His remarks have drawn sharp criticism. Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey condemned the statement as “harmful to social harmony and unity” and demanded an apology.
Singhar later clarified that his stand was not against any religion, stating he personally believes in Hinduism, but accused BJP of using tribals for political purposes. He also pointed out that no tribal has ever been made the Sarsanghchalak of the RSS.
With tribals forming nearly 21% of Madhya Pradesh’s population and 47 Assembly seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes, such remarks carry serious political weight.
This controversy highlights the growing battle over tribal identity and its connection to Hindu society. At stake is not just politics, but the unity and cultural fabric of Bharat.
