Sat Nov 15 16:09:04 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version as a news article:
Summary:
The article reports on a controversial statement made by Madhya Pradesh Higher Education Minister Inder Singh Parmar. During an event commemorating the 150th anniversary of Birsa Munda, Parmar alleged that 19th-century social reformer Raja Ram Mohan Roy was an “agent” of the British colonial rulers, accusing him of working to convert people through English education. Parmar lauded Birsa Munda for attempting to stop this “cycle of religious conversion.” His comments have sparked controversy given Roy’s prominent role in Indian social reform, particularly his efforts to abolish Sati and promote women’s rights.
News Article:
MP Minister Sparks Outrage, Accuses Raja Ram Mohan Roy of Being a “British Agent”
Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh – November 15, 2025 – Madhya Pradesh Higher Education Minister Inder Singh Parmar ignited a firestorm of controversy today after claiming that 19th-century social reformer Raja Ram Mohan Roy was an “agent” of the British colonial rulers.
Speaking at an event in Agar Malwa district celebrating the 150th anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda, Parmar alleged that Roy was instrumental in furthering a “cycle of religious conversion” through English education at the behest of the British.
“There was a vicious cycle going on…to change the faith of the people of this county through English education and the British had made several Indians as fake social reformers. Raja Ram Mohan Roy was one of them who kept working as a British agent,” Parmar stated.
The minister, who also holds the Technical Education and AYUSH portfolios, praised Birsa Munda for attempting to stop this alleged conversion effort, claiming he “saved the tribal community.”
Parmar’s remarks have drawn sharp criticism due to Raja Ram Mohan Roy’s revered status as the “father of modern Indian renaissance.” Roy is widely celebrated for his pivotal role in abolishing the Sati practice and advocating for women’s rights, including widow remarriage. He also co-founded the Brahmo Sabha, which later became the Brahmo Samaj, a significant socio-religious reform movement.
The Madhya Pradesh government is currently celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas with events being held across the state. The comments have overshadowed these celebrations and raised questions about the state government’s historical understanding and interpretation.
First Piper 