Politicising all issues in India undesirable, says Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Spiritual guru and Art of Living (AoL) founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has said that he is concerned over every issue in India being politicized, and added that this trend is undesirable.

Interacting with media here, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said, "There are many issues we are facing in this country and all that I would appeal to people is please do not politicise everything. Issues should be taken up on facts. Let us not mix, every day you are seeing incidents of terrorism and all being politicized. What is happening is shocking. So, our people need to know the truth. People of this country have a great sense of patience, resilience and intelligence. They should not be fooled by anybody."

Asked if the Rs.5 crore fine imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on the Art of Living Foundation for allegedly damaging the Yamuna flood plain during the recently held World Cultural Festival was politically motivated, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said, "It is obvious, whatever issue is raised in Parliament is obvious."

He said that he was visiting various parts of Tripura and other north eastern states to promote total literacy, employment and peace.

He added that there is huge scope for development in the region through skill development initiatives, organic cultivation and Ayurveda.

The 59-year-old spiritual guru said his aim was to unite all cultures, religions, faiths and ideologies.