Mumbai’s political scene heated up as Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam unleashed a sharp critique on Thursday, targeting prominent politicians who have steered clear of Ayodhya’s Ram Temple even two years after its grand consecration. For millions of Hindus across India, the temple stands as a symbol of triumph following decades of legal battles and social struggles. Yet, Nirupam accused self-proclaimed religious leaders of avoiding the site purely out of fear of alienating Muslim voters—a move he branded as both tragic and laughable.
In a candid interview, Nirupam emphasized India’s secular fabric, where every faith deserves respect. However, he argued that disregarding the sentiments of the majority community crosses a line. ‘It’s unacceptable to hurt the feelings of crores of devotees just to appease a vote bank,’ he stated firmly.
Shifting gears, Nirupam expressed deep reverence for the Shankaracharyas, particularly Swami Avimukteshwaranand, whom he and Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde hold in high esteem. He recalled how the seer blessed the state during the declaration of the cow as ‘Rajmata.’ On the Prayagraj Mouni Amavasya stampede, he noted the massive crowds gathering for the holy dip and pinned the responsibility on police management, while underscoring the need to honor spiritual leaders.
The conversation took a dramatic turn with revelations about I-PAC, the political consultancy firm at the center of a brewing scandal. Nirupam called the latest disclosures ‘explosive,’ alleging that I-PAC advises multiple parties on strategy, candidate selection, and victories—for hefty fees. He pointed to an ED raid on their offices, which some parties decried as an assault on their operations.
Now, fresh details have emerged: I-PAC allegedly took a Rs 13 crore unsecured loan from a Haryana-based company that doesn’t even exist. ‘This screams money laundering,’ Nirupam charged, suggesting it was a ploy to convert black money into white. He demanded rigorous ED and PMLA probes into I-PAC’s leadership and entire network, urging swift action to uncover the full extent of the irregularities.
As political alliances shift and elections loom, Nirupam’s outspoken remarks could reshape debates on faith, secularism, and financial transparency in Indian politics.