When asked about the integration of religion and Hindutva in politics, raised by Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Sarma reaffirmed the BJP’s stance, stating, “If we don’t speak up for Hindus in India, then who should we speak up for? Babar or Aurangzeb? We’ll confidently champion Hinduism.”

Sarma emphasized the pride his party takes in speaking about Hindu culture, which advocates for a world of inclusivity and unity. He expressed, “Hinduism embodies Sarva Dharma Samabhava, respecting all religions equally. Hindus believe in a unified world. If we don’t boast about this culture, what else should we speak about? As long as we are alive, we’ll proudly endorse Hinduism.”

In a separate rally in Rajasthan’s Dungarpur district, Priyanka Gandhi cautioned voters against the manipulation of emotions and religion in politics, advising them to discern whether politicians are genuinely working for their welfare or merely exploiting religious sentiments.

Regarding assurances made by the Congress in various state assemblies, Sarma mockingly questioned the credibility of guarantees provided by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, stating, “Rahul Gandhi makes assurances for the Congress. But who vouches for Rahul Gandhi? Not even his mother can guarantee him. So, what value do his assurances hold? Someone should validate his assurances first.”

Reacting to Priyanka Gandhi’s assertion about her grandmother teaching her the ‘Gayatri Mantra’, Himanta dismissed it by stating, “It is not part of the Sanatan culture to disclose who taught the Gayatri Mantra to whom. Indira Gandhi wasn’t the sole person aware of the Gayatri Mantra; it’s known to every child in India.”

Sarma criticized the Ashok Gehlot government in Rajasthan for failing to fulfill promises related to farm loan waivers and unemployment allowances, accusing them of engaging in malpractices such as paper leaks and mistreatment of women.

Regarding the implementation of a policy similar to Assam’s decision on ‘madrasas’ in Rajasthan, Sarma advocated for the closure of government-funded madrasas while allowing those independently managed by communities to operate, emphasizing the need for regulating these institutions to ensure students’ right to education and viable career pathways.

He further highlighted concerns about madrasas solely producing religious scholars and advocated for comprehensive reforms in the entire madrasa system, particularly those reliant on government salaries, urging an immediate cessation of such practices in states like Bengal and Assam (in the past).

Upcoming state assembly elections include Rajasthan on November 25, while Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh concluded their voting on November 17. The first phase of Chhattisgarh elections occurred on November 7, Mizoram also voted on the same day, and Telangana is scheduled to vote on November 30. The results for all state assembly elections will be announced on December 3.