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Patriotism should rise above religion: Mallikarjun Kharge

Patriotism should rise above religion: Mallikarjun Kharge

Time of India12-05-2025

Kalaburagi: In these challenging times, we face a choice between conflict and
Buddha's teachings
of peace. The AICC president and Rajya Sabha opposition leader
Mallikarjun Kharge
emphasised that when national security and dignity are at risk, patriotism should rise above religious and caste divisions.Speaking at the 2,569th
Vaishakha Buddha Purnima
celebration at Buddha Vihara in Kalaburagi city on Monday, Kharge acknowledged the necessity for peace while recognising that defending the nation sometimes requires military action. He praised
Indian Armed Forces
for their successful operations against Pakistan, while honouring the brave soldiers and officers who sacrificed their lives.He highlighted that India's armed forces remain undefeated despite numerous attacks on the nation.
Their recent response to Pakistani aggression demonstrated their unwavering patriotism. With the conflict concluded, Kharge assured citizens to remain courageous and disregard provocative statements from certain quarters.Kharge stressed the importance of national unity when sovereignty and dignity are challenged.
He called for embracing Buddha's philosophy and pursuing peaceful coexistence. While Buddha Purnima celebrations are held nationwide and his statues are installed, Kharge expressed concern about the limited acceptance of Buddhist principles and teachings in practice.

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