Som's Taj Mahal remarks his personal viewpoint: RSS

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Monday said the statement made by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Sangeet Som was his personal viewpoint.

Earlier in the day, Som said that the iconic Taj Mahal was built by traitors and hence, cannot be included in the Indian history.

Speaking to ANI, RSS ideologue Rakesh Sinha said, "It is his (Sangeet Som) viewpoint. The facts of history and all historical data should be seen with a historical perspective. There is a need for being cautious while having discourse on history."

He further said the Mughals oppressed the Hindus in many ways but contributions made by them in terms of art and architecture should not be objected by anyone.

Commenting on Som's remarks, Uttar Pradesh Minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi said everyone has right to have own outlook on history as India is a democratic country.

"In India, there is democracy and everyone has own perception about the history of India. Everyone has the right to comment, evaluate and have own point of view about the history of India," she told ANI.

Joshi further said that as far as Taj Mahal is concerned, it is the heritage of India and holds huge importance.

"The Taj Mahal has national importance and visited by several people from all over the world. We have provided more than Rs. 1 lakh crore for the beautification of Taj Mahal. We have also chosen Agra for construction of Metro and included it in smart cities. It is obvious that such developmental processes are taking place because we consider Taj Mahal as our heritage," she added.

Som, however, drew flak from Opposition parties for his remarks that he made during an event at the Sisoli village in Meerut district.

While addressing a gathering, Som said, "Many people were disappointed that the Taj Mahal was removed from the Uttar Pradesh tourism booklet. What history are we talking about? The creator of Taj Mahal (Shahjahan) imprisoned his father. He wanted to wipe out Hindus. If these people are part of our history, then it is very sad and we will change this history."

He remained adamant on his remarks and said he does not oppose the monument, but the Mughals who built it.

Speaking to ANI, the BJP MLA said, "I don't oppose Taj Mahal as it's a beautiful heritage. I oppose Mughals who built it and how they've been portrayed in the Indian history."

He further said that Mughals were not Indian but attackers who demolished temples.