Allegation against Asaram Bapu part of attack on Hindu culture: VHP

HYDERABAD: Allegations of sexual assault against self-styled godman Asaram Bapu is part of attack on "Hindu culture" which started with the arrest of Kanchi Shankaracharya in 2004, Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader Ashok Singhal claimed here today.

"The latest instance of insult that has come up is one involving Asaram Bapu. He is 80-year-old. You arrest him on charges of raping a girl? This is not about his arrest. This is telling the Hindu community that we will finish your feelings of respect towards a religious leader," he said at a press conference here.

"These allegations are being made (against someone) at the age of 80. Are they not ashamed of it? It is understandable if such allegations are made against a young person," he said.

Saying that "the Hindu culture" was under attack, he claimed this started with the arrest of Kanchi Shankaracharya in 2004 in a murder case.

"Hindu culture is being attacked. Our saints are being attacked today. Charges are thrust against saints. Shankaracharyaji was arrested in Hyderabad on Diwali day in 2004. He was arrested in connection with allegations of murder ....," Singhal said.

Replying to a query, Singhal said the 'Chaurasi Kosi Parikrama yatra' (pilgrimage) launched by the VHP in Uttar Pradesh was continuing.

The VHP leader was in Hyderabad for a meeting of the organisers of Ganesh chaturdhi pandals.