'Danger to India not from communism': Ansari's Hindu right-wing remark sparks row

Former Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari sparked controversy when he cited Nehru's remarks on "the real danger to India" not being communism, but Hindu right-wing communalism. Ansari made this statement during an event to remember the life and works of jurist and author Abdul Ghafoor Noorani, whose 2019 book titled "The RSS: A Menace to India" he referred to.

Noorani, in his book's introduction, quoted Nehru's warning from a Ministry of External Affairs meeting, as recorded by former Foreign Secretary Jagat Singh Gundevia. Ansari discussed Noorani's writings on nationalism, identity, and political developments in India. He highlighted a shift from civic nationalism towards cultural nationalism, which he saw as a dangerous trend.

Ansari expressed concerns over emerging trends that challenge the principle of civic nationalism, stating that these trends "seek to present an electoral majority in the guise of a religious majority and monopolise political power. It wants to distinguish citizens based on their faith, give vent to intolerance, insinuate otherness, and promote disquiet and insecurity."

The BJP quickly condemned Ansari's remarks, accusing Congress of "anti-Hindu politics." A BJP spokesperson pointed out Rahul Gandhi's past remarks on Hindu groups and terrorism, alleging a pattern in the party's political narrative. The controversy raised questions about political rhetoric and its impact on national unity.