Ujjain: BJP president Amit Shah today took a holy dip with Dalit Sadhus in Kshipra river at the ongoing 'Singhast Kumbh' in Ujjain, a move that many see as BJP's attempt to woo Dalits.
The BJP leader took the holy dip named 'Samrasta Snan' (social harmony bath) at Valmiki Ghat. He is also scheduled to dine with Dalit seers and saints.
Shah, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, BJP vice president Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, BJP MP chief Nandkumar Singh Chauhan and some other state ministers were also exxpected to be present at the occassion.
The social harmony bath comes at a time when the RSS too is organising a series of functions to draw Dalits and tribals into its fold.
However, the event has been criticised by some political parties and Hindu religious organizations that have accused the BJP of politicising a religious event.
Shah's dip with the Dalit community has drawn sharp reactions from various Hindu organisations, including All India Akhara Parishad, who termed it politically motivated.
"BJP and RSS have a long-term vision to assimilate the Dalit community with the Hindu mainstream. Our endeavour is to assuage Dalits about their roots," a senior BJP member told The Times of India.
