Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Mar 1: In a statement issued on Friday March 1, spiritual head of Pejawar Math here, Sri Vishveshateerha Swamiji, hailed wing commander Abhinandan Varthaman, for the grit and courage he exhibited when in crisis. "The way he conducted himself when in enemy territory has enhanced the honour of our country. He deserves our salutes in abundance. He has also shown his concern to protect the interests of his motherland by swallowing papers to avoid it from reaching the hands of enemies," he explained.

The Swamiji was quick to assert that India should not engage in war with Pakistan, duly noting that every war accounts for thousands of lies. "Our soldiers perish during the war. Let peace be allowed to settle without compromising our self respect. I heartily congratulate Narendra Modi. I appreciate him for the development initiative, courage, and boldness," he said. He also felt that Modi became Prime Minister of India at an appropriate time.

On the controversy over Yeddyurappa's statement about the chance to bag 22 Lok Sabha seats based on army operation, Pejawar Swamiji dismissed it as a minor issue which does not deserve to be given too much importance. He recalled that when Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister, war had taken place, and many leaders had claimed that it would work out to the advantage of Congress. So, he said, Yeddyurappa's utterances need not be blown out of proportions.

On the issue of handling terrorism, the Swamiji said that the terrorists should be decimated at any cost, and at the same time, it should be ensured that innocent people do not lose their lies. "Terrorists should be hunted down by conducting search operations. I congratulate the security forces involved with surgical strike," he said.

Sri Vishveshateertha Swamiji expressed his feeling of hatred towards the intelligentsia of India, duly noting that even in times when the country is facing a serious situation, these people do not seem to nurse any feelings of patriotism. He said he prays to the god to endow intellectuals with good sense. He wished that these intellectuals do not turn into evil persons and said he prays god to turn these people into the ones who aim for goodness.