Bageshwar Dham's Acharya Dhirendra Krishna Shastri has issued a stark warning regarding the future of Chhattisgarh, declaring that the state is on the cusp of significant change. He asserted that Chhattisgarh will become a stronghold against religious conversions, advocating for severe penalties, including capital punishment, for those who engage in forced conversions.
Shastri has called for "anti-Hindus" to leave the country or undergo "Ghar-Wapsi," a term referring to the reconversion to Hinduism. He has alleged foreign-sponsored conspiracies are behind incidents of stone pelting during Hindu festivals and has vowed to initiate nationwide "padyatras" (long marches) to awaken Hindus. These marches are reportedly planned from November 7th to 16th, with the stated aim of promoting social harmony and establishing India as a "Hindu Rashtra".
Shastri stated that due to the growing influence of Hindutva ideology, religious conversions are being curbed in Chhattisgarh. He characterized the state as a "land of victory, devotion to the motherland, Hindutva, and Ram". Shastri believes that Chhattisgarh could soon become the first state where opposition to religious conversion is voiced in every village, effectively halting such activities. He also commented on Naxalism, stating it is a major stain on Chhattisgarh's image that will soon be eradicated.
Shastri further elaborated on his vision for India, stating that it is crucial for the nation to be declared a "Hindu Rashtra". He argues that while India is already a Hindu Rashtra in practice, it needs to be solidified in the hearts and minds of its people.
These statements were made in advance of Shastri's visit to Sambhal and his planned padyatra. He intends to visit every corner of the country to spread his message.
Previously, during a visit to Raipur, Chhattisgarh, Shastri emphasized the need for Hindu unity, referencing a statement by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath: "if divided, we will be cut". He has supported preventing non-Hindu shops from being set up at the Maha Kumbh Mela and restricting the entry of non-Hindus, questioning their purpose there if they have no connection to Ram. Shastri has also claimed that a small number of British colonizers were able to enslave a country of 400 million people using the principle of "divide and rule".
In the past, Shastri has faced criticism and challenges to his claims of possessing miraculous powers. He has responded by inviting skeptics to witness his "divine court," where he claims to predict the future, attributing his abilities to the grace of God, his gurus, and the power of Sanatan Dharma mantras. He has also stated that those who speak against Sanatan Dharma will be boycotted.
