Karnataka Minister Sparks Debate on Two-Nation Theory Origins

Karnataka IT Minister Priyank Kharge claims that the two-nation theory was first proposed by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar before Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Kharge traced Savarkar's ideas through his writings and speeches, sparking controversy and debate on social media while questioning BJP's stance on historical narratives.

Karnataka IT and Biotechnology Minister Priyank Kharge has ignited a controversy by stating that the two-nation theory was originally proposed by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Kharge noted that Savarkar articulated this concept long before Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the Muslim League.

According to Kharge, in his work 'Essentials of Hindutva' from 1922, Savarkar identified India as both a 'Fatherland' and a 'Holyland,' urging unity beyond religious divides. Furthermore, during the Hindu Mahasabha's session in Ahmedabad in 1937, Savarkar asserted that two antagonistic nations—Hindus and Muslims—were coexisting in India.

Kharge's post, shared on social media during Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, highlighted Savarkar's acknowledgment of the two-nation idea, and questioned whether the BJP recognizes this historical perspective. The remarks drew heated debates among users and emphasized the ideological links between Hindutva leaders and this contentious theory.

(With inputs from agencies.)