19 hours Ago
NEW DELHI: Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Sunday welcomed govt's decision to confer Padma Bhushan on Sadhvi Ritambhara for her contributions to social work even as critics pointed to her controversial past and argued that this could not be overlooked. VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal said, "Sadhvi ji dedicated her entire life to the upliftment of society and religion. Her care for countless abandoned children and destitute women is unparalleled.
I recall one heart-wrenching case of a newborn girl, left abandoned and mauled by dogs, who was rescued by Didi Ma. Today, that child thrives under her loving care." VHP said her contribution to the Ram Mandir movement was immense, as also her contribution to spirituality, culture, civilisation and national values.
The spokesperson also highlighted Ritambhara's unique approach at Vatsalya Gram, her community initiative for orphans and destitute women. "It's a new philosophy where abandoned children are given familial love and care. Houses within the ashram are run by mausis (aunts) and nanis (grandmothers), many of whom were themselves once orphans," he said.
However, the award has ignited polarised reactions, particularly on social media. While her supporters hailed her recognition as long overdue, critics argued that her controversial past could not be overlooked. The sadhvi's fiery speeches and active participation in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement remain points of contention.
Born in Ludhiana, Ritambhara gained prominence in the 1980s as a VHP speaker. Her provocative speeches during the Ram Mandir movement were instrumental in mobilising support but also led to charges of inciting communal discord. She was named in the Liberhan Commission report on the Babri Masjid demolition but was acquitted of all charges in 2020.
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