Sanjay Raut Alleges BJP Neglected Veer Savarkar, Bal Thackeray for Bharat Ratna Awards

Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut accuses BJP of neglecting Veer Savarkar and Bal Thackeray for Bharat Ratna awards amidst PM Modi's announcement of new recipients. Raut criticizes the government for honoring others while ignoring these icons, sparking political controversy.

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In a recent development, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut criticized the BJP government, alleging that it disregarded Hindutva stalwarts Veer Savarkar and Bal Thackeray for the prestigious Bharat Ratna awards. Raut's comments come in the wake of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement regarding the recipients of this honor, which excluded these prominent figures. According to Raut, this oversight by the government reflects a pattern of neglect towards individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation's cultural and political landscape.

Raut emphasized Prime Minister Modi's self-professed commitment to Hindutva values, contrasting it with the apparent oversight of key Hindutva figures like Bal Thackeray. He expressed dismay that while three leaders were honored with the Bharat Ratna in a short span, neither Savarkar nor Thackeray received the recognition they deserved. Raut's criticism underscored the perception of selective recognition by the government, especially in the context of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

The controversy deepened as Raut pointed out that while the norm dictates the recognition of three individuals annually, the government announced five recipients this year, potentially influenced by political considerations. He mentioned the names of Chaudhary Charan Singh, P V Narasimha Rao, and M S Swaminathan, who were conferred the Bharat Ratna alongside others, further fueling the debate over the selection process.

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The announcement of Bharat Ratna recipients this year has stirred significant debate, particularly due to the omission of Veer Savarkar and Bal Thackeray, two prominent figures in Hindutva ideology. Earlier recipients of the award include figures like Karpoori Thakur and L K Advani, but the exclusion of Savarkar and Thackeray has drawn widespread criticism. This year's announcement marked a departure from previous years, with five individuals receiving the honor, the highest number in a single year since 1999.

The controversy surrounding the Bharat Ratna selection process underscores the complex intersection of politics and recognition of national icons. The omission of Veer Savarkar and Bal Thackeray has sparked a broader conversation about the criteria and transparency in awarding India's highest civilian honor, reflecting the deeper ideological divisions within the country's political landscape.