Congress backs Swami Avimukteshwaranand’s cow protection drive

Varanasi: Expressing support to movement led by Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, UPCC President Ajay Rai said that the Congress party was firmly by his side. The seer is demanding ‘Raj Mata' status for cow and for ban on beef export within 40 days. On Mar 11, he plans to reach Lucknow and announce a drive for protection of cow.Along with Congress workers, Rai called on the seer on Thursday to extend Holi greetings to him and said guidance of saints in preserving traditions, faith and religious values of Sanatan Dharma was important for the society.Rai said that any attempt to hurt dignity of religion, culture and saint community, will be opposed by his party, which was an advocate of respect for all religions.The UP Congress chief said that Kashi residents and his party stand firmly with Avimukteshwaranand."We will not tolerate his insult at any cost. The government should remember that its dictatorship will not last long," said Rai.