Joshimath, 25 August (H.S.):

Jyotirmath Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati has strongly objected to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's remarks on the Manusmriti, saying that proper study and an understanding of scriptural context are essential before commenting on Hindu religious texts.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Shankaracharya said Rahul Gandhi's comments on the Manusmriti and Sanatan cultural traditions during an event in Pune reflected a superficial understanding of Hindu scriptures. He alleged that false and misleading narratives about the Manusmriti and Hindu religious texts were repeatedly being propagated, from Parliament to public platforms.

He said political differences have their place, but facts, context and scholarly study should be given priority while commenting on religion and scriptures. The Shankaracharya urged Rahul Gandhi to study Hindu scriptures through authentic sources and learned scholars before making public statements on the subject.

Swami Avimukteshwaranand said there are diverse interpretations and viewpoints regarding the Manusmriti and other Hindu scriptures. Therefore, instead of presenting a one-sided perception of any text, it is necessary to understand its original form, context, purpose and place within the broader scriptural tradition. He added that remarks made about religious texts from political platforms have an impact on different sections of society.

Referring to the Manusmriti verse, *Pita Rakshati Kaumare, Bharta Rakshati Yauvane...*, he said it does not advocate the subjugation of women but speaks about the responsibility of the family and society to protect them. He explained that the Sanskrit word *Rakshati* means to protect and not to exercise control.

The Shankaracharya said women have always been regarded as embodiments of power and dignity in the Sanatan tradition. Citing the women sages of the Rig Veda, he said Indian culture has historically been founded on mutual respect and complementarity.

He also rejected Rahul Gandhi's alleged assertion that the Bharatiya Janata Party supports the Manusmriti. He said India is governed by the Constitution, and linking any political party with the Manusmriti is factually incorrect.

Swami Avimukteshwaranand reiterated that false and misleading propaganda about the Manusmriti and Hindu scriptures is repeatedly being spread in Parliament and public discourse. According to him, it was because of such statements that Rahul Gandhi had earlier been declared excommunicated from the Hindu faith.

He said his objection was not directed against any political party but against what he described as factually incorrect and misleading propaganda regarding Sanatan scriptures. He added that if such comments continue without proper scriptural study, the Sanatan community will continue to oppose them through ideological and democratic means.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar