Union Minister Bandi Sanjay today made "controversial remarks" at the Kartika Vana Bhojanalu programme organised by members of the Kapu community in Kukatpally.
He urged those in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana who had embraced other religions after leaving Hinduism to return to the Hindu faith through Ghar Wapsi.
He said that the doors of Hinduism were open to all who wish to return through Ghar Wapsi, and that abandoning one's religion was akin to cheating the gods.
He also said that there was a need for all Hindus to form a united vote bank, and that especially after the recent Jubilee Hills Assembly by-election results this need had intensified.
"Hindu Sanatana Dharma is great. It is a matter of pride for all of us to be born as Hindus. All castes should work for the welfare of their communities and for Hindu dharma. My goal is to protect Hindu Sanatana Dharma. AP Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan's Sanatana Dharma campaign is inspiring those who embraced other religions to reconsider their decision," he said.
Sanjay also congratulated all the castes organising Vanabhojanalu, and said that the poor should be supported.