Campaigning Wraps Up as PM Embarks on 2-Day Meditation Retreat in Kanniyakumari

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Kanniyakumari, where he plans to engage in meditation at the Vivekananda Rock memorial from this evening until Saturday evening. The Prime Minister intends to meditate at the Dhyan Mandapam, the very spot where Hindu philosopher-saint Swami Vivekananda sought clarity about India’s future in 1892.

Situated at the convergence of the Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal, and the Arabian Sea, Kanniyakumari holds symbolic significance for national unity, according to BJP leaders. Security measures are robust, with over 2,000 police personnel deployed around the memorial, complemented by vigilance from the Coast Guard and Navy.

However, the Prime Minister’s meditation plan has stirred political controversy. The Congress has accused him of attempting to bypass the silence period restrictions ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. They have petitioned the Election Commission to prevent media coverage of his meditation, citing a violation of the model code of conduct. Similarly, the DMK has lodged a complaint with the district collector against granting permission for the Prime Minister’s spiritual retreat.

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In response, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the Prime Minister, questioning the timing and necessity of his meditation, particularly in the presence of cameras. The BJP has retaliated, accusing opponents of having an “anti-Sanatan mindset” and highlighting the Prime Minister’s inspiration from Swami Vivekananda. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla argued that the Congress’s objection stems from an “anti-Hindu attitude” and defended the Prime Minister’s right to engage in meditation, especially given his respect for Swami Vivekananda’s teachings.