Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tribute to the Somnath temple, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused Jawaharlal Nehru and "leftist" historians of distorting history by portraying Mahmud of Ghazni as a mere plunderer rather than a religious fanatic. The BJP contends that this distortion has obscured the true motivations behind the temple's destruction 1,000 years ago.

BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi addressed the issue at a press conference, emphasizing the importance of understanding the historical context of the Somnath temple's destruction. He stated that it is crucial to remember and understand how Nehru and leftist historians allegedly misrepresented the Muslim invader's actions. Trivedi argued that these historians downplayed Ghazni's religious zealotry, portraying him simply as someone seeking wealth.

Trivedi referred to Jawaharlal Nehru's book, "The Discovery of India," as a primary source of these historical distortions. He quoted Nehru's description of Mahmud Ghazni as "far more a warrior than a man of faith," who exploited religion for conquest and viewed India mainly as a source of treasure. Trivedi argued that this interpretation ignores the religious motivations behind Ghazni's destruction of the Somnath Temple.

Trivedi highlighted an account from a historian who accompanied Mahmud Ghazni, stating that Ghazni refused an offer of gold coins to spare the Shivling, declaring his desire to be known as an iconoclast rather than a trader with idol worshippers. Trivedi asserted that this account disproves the theories presented by leftist historians.

The BJP spokesperson also pointed out Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's role in reconstructing the Somnath temple, despite Nehru's alleged opposition. He recalled that during the temple's inaugural ceremony, President Rajendra Prasad stated that its reconstruction would be complete when India achieved development and prosperity. The BJP has linked India's current economic progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the resilience symbolized by the Somnath temple's rebuilding.

Trivedi drew a parallel between Ghazni's plundering expeditions and claims made by former US President Donald Trump, who stated that India and Pakistan had been fighting for 1,000 years. Trivedi noted that Pakistan's missiles are named after Ghazni, Babar, and Ghori, underscoring the historical context of the conflict.

The BJP's criticism comes as Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to participate in the "Somnath Swabhiman Parv" on January 11, celebrating the resilience of Indian civilization. Spiritual leaders have praised Modi for raising awareness about the Somnath temple, emphasizing its importance as a center of faith and a symbol of India's civilizational spirit.