Muslim and civil society groups demand action after religious figure’s remarks; no official police statement yet
ALMORA — A political and social controversy has erupted in Uttarakhand after a video surfaced online showing a religious speaker allegedly issuing violent threats against Muslims during a public gathering in Almora.
The event, organised under the banner of a “Bhavya Hindu Sammelan” by a local committee, has drawn sharp criticism from members of the Muslim community and civil society groups. They have demanded immediate legal action over what they describe as an open call for violence.
In the viral video, a religious figure identified as “Lal Baba” is heard making inflammatory remarks targeting Muslims. He allegedly warned individuals he described as having a “jihadi mentality” to leave Uttarakhand and made threats of physical harm.
Due to the extremely graphic and violent nature of the remarks, Clarion India is not reproducing the exact language used. However, community leaders say the statements amounted to direct incitement to violence.
One local Muslim representative said, “This was not just hate speech; it was an open threat against our lives and dignity. Such statements create fear among ordinary citizens.”
The controversy has intensified because Union Minister of State Ajay Tamta was reportedly present on the stage during the event.
Critics have questioned why no immediate objection was raised during the speech. Opposition voices and community activists have demanded clarification from the minister regarding his position on the remarks.
As of now, there has been no public statement from the minister addressing the incident.
Members of the Muslim community in Almora and elsewhere in Uttarakhand have expressed anger and concern. Several organisations have called for the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) under laws dealing with hate speech and incitement to violence.
A community leader said, “If such speeches are ignored, it sets a dangerous precedent. The administration must act swiftly to maintain trust in the rule of law.”
Some civil society activists have also raised broader concerns about communal harmony in the state, urging authorities to take preventive measures.
At the time of reporting, there has been no confirmed statement from local police regarding whether a complaint has been formally registered or whether an investigation has been initiated.
Legal experts point out that Indian law prohibits speech that promotes enmity between communities or incites violence, and that authorities are obligated to examine such complaints if received.
A retired legal analyst said, “Freedom of speech does not extend to direct calls for violence. If the video is authentic, the matter requires careful legal scrutiny.”
The incident has sparked debate on social media, with supporters of the speaker defending the remarks as emotional rhetoric, while critics argue that the language crossed constitutional and legal boundaries.
Authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely to prevent any disturbance of law and order.
For now, community leaders are appealing for calm while pressing for lawful action, as the issue continues to generate strong reactions across Uttarakhand.
