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Mumbai - State Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha had appealed to the Jain community to give up their minority status and join the mainstream as Hindus. In this context, Lalit Gandhi, President of the 'Jain Minorities Economic Development Corporation', condemned the statement. He said, "Lodha made this statement without taking anyone from the Jain community into confidence. His statement is rooted in ignorance or is part of a pre-planned agenda."
Lalit Gandhi further stated
1. The Jain religion is an independent and ancient religion. It has its own Tirthankars, its own philosophy, and its own path to attaining Moksha. We follow Hindu culture; however, Jainism is not a branch or sub-branch of Hinduism. Religion and culture are two distinct concepts. The minority status granted to Jains is not a form of charity, but our constitutional right.
2. Minority status is a recognition of our distinct identity. Giving up this status would mean denying our very existence. We will oppose such an ideology at every level. Any attempt to take away this constitutional right will be strongly resisted. This status has been extremely important for the unity of the Jain community. Lodha should take note that the Jain community will no longer remain silent on this issue.