NEW DELHI- In a concerning turn of events, BJP MLAs Nitish Rane and T Raja Singh have been booked for delivering alleged hate speeches during the Hindu Jan Aakrosh Rally in Solapur, Maharashtra, on January 6, 2024. The speeches, which touched upon sensitive issues like Muslim areas, cow slaughter, and “love-jihad,” have intensified anti-minority sentiments, prompting a swift response from law enforcement authorities.
Hate speech has become a strategic tool employed by various leaders, as highlighted by the United Nations, with the potential to harm societies, disrupt peace, and impede development. India, particularly in the lead-up to elections, has witnessed a surge in such divisive rhetoric.
Nitish Rane, the MLA from Kankavali assembly constituency in Maharashtra, and T Raja Singh, the MLA from Goshamahal constituency in Telangana, face charges for inciting sentiments through their speeches. Rane emphasized issues like ‘land jihad,’ ‘love jihad,’ and ‘cow slaughter,’ declaring war against what he referred to as ‘jihadi forces.’
A police officer reported that the FIR against Rane, Raja Singh, Sakal Hindu Samaj office-bearer Sudhakar Mahadev Bahirwade, and others includes various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 153A and 295A. The rally, held between Rajendra Chowk and Kanna Chowk, witnessed violence, with two individuals reportedly pelting stones at shops, resulting in minor injuries. The police have arrested two suspects in connection with the violence.
Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, speaking on the incident, emphasized the need for strict action against those disrupting law and order. Meanwhile, former Karnataka minister and BJP leader, KS Eshwarappa, added to the communal tension by allegedly urging Muslims to vacate mosques constructed by demolishing temples, warning of serious consequences if not followed.
The situation escalated further with Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader Shriraj Nayyar promoting conspiracy theories during an event in Mumbai. Nayyar’s inflammatory remarks centered on the demographic changes in Kashmir and implications for Hindus, raising concerns about the spread of anti-Muslim sentiments.
In a separate incident, a video surfaced featuring a collective pledge by school children at the Akhand Vedanta Sant Sammelan, vowing to protect their culture and dignity.
Additionally, during a media briefing, Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava reportedly issued what critics interpreted as a threat, directing owners of malls, restaurants, and institutions to set up replicas of the Ram temple before January 22.
The increasing frequency of hate speeches and their potential consequences underscore the importance of addressing this issue to maintain communal harmony and national integrity.