Guwahati, March 4 -- Assam Health and Family Welfare Minister Ashok Singhal has faced widespread criticism for allegedly making controversial remarks about "Bhaona," the traditional Assamese Hindu religious performing art form.

The controversy arose after a delegation from the Guwahati Press Club met Minister Singhal on Monday to invite him to a Bhaona performance organized by the journalists. During the meeting, the minister reportedly questioned the Press Club's decision to host the event, stating, "Bhaona is not secular."

The Guwahati Press Club has strongly condemned the minister's remarks, calling them "unfortunate and disrespectful to Assam's rich cultural heritage."

The press club in a statement said that their event was inclusi...