Samajwadi Party condemns Nand Kishore Gurjar’s hate speech and demands accountability
LUCKNOW — Just days before the holy festival of Eid-al-Azha, a shocking and inflammatory statement made by BJP MLA Nand Kishore Gurjar from Loni has stirred intense outrage across the state. The politician’s call to “shoot” Muslim shopkeepers if they attempt to evade his inspection has ignited a political firestorm, with opposition parties, particularly the Samajwadi Party (SP), demanding immediate action and condemning the rising atmosphere of hate.
Preparations for Eid-al-Azha, one of the most significant festivals for the Muslim community, are underway, with many flocking to goat markets across Uttar Pradesh to purchase sacrificial animals. Despite the festive mood, Gurjar’s aggressive conduct during a recent inspection of meat shops in Farrukhnagar has cast a dark shadow over the celebrations.
According to eyewitnesses, Gurjar visited meat shops on Friday, accompanied by supporters and police. He grew angry upon seeing a chicken cage outside one shop and verbally abused the shopkeeper. In a moment that shocked many, Gurjar reportedly threatened: “If he runs away, shoot him.” The statement was caught on video and quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread condemnation.
In addition to his harsh words, the MLA forcibly handed a shopkeeper over to police authorities for alleged licensing violations, further escalating tensions. The video of his outburst spread rapidly, bringing the issue into the political spotlight.
The Samajwadi Party reacted sharply to Gurjar’s threat, describing it as a blatant act of incitement targeting the Muslim community. SP spokesperson Bhanu Bhaskar Joshi stated, “It is not unusual for the MLA to visit shops in his area, but his words are unacceptable. He said that if the shopkeeper runs away, he should be shot at. Which law allows such action? This is a violation of human rights and a reflection of the BJP’s intolerance.”
Joshi accused Gurjar of encouraging violence and pointed out the failure of law enforcement to maintain peace. “This shows the true face of the BJP in Uttar Pradesh,” he added. “When farmers protested, this MLA was known for using muscle power to suppress them. Now, he is openly threatening Muslim shopkeepers. We urge Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who often boasts about law and order, to condemn these statements and take strict action.”
Muslim shopkeepers and community members have expressed fear and anger over the MLA’s remarks. Abdul Rahman, a meat shop owner in Farrukhnagar, said, “We have always respected the law and paid our dues. To be threatened like criminals before such an important festival is hurtful and unfair. This is not just about one man; it is about how Muslims are being treated in this state.”
A resident, Ayesha Khan, added, “This kind of hatred spreads fear among us. We want to celebrate Eid peacefully without being targeted because of our faith.”
This incident is not isolated. Over recent years, there have been numerous reports of discrimination and harassment targeting Muslims in Uttar Pradesh, often linked to inflammatory rhetoric from some BJP leaders. Critics argue that such statements contribute to a climate of fear and division ahead of important religious festivals.
Political analyst Ravi Shankar commented, “Such hate speech from elected representatives threatens social harmony and undermines the rule of law. It is the responsibility of the government to act swiftly and protect all citizens, regardless of religion.”
The Samajwadi Party has called on the state government to take immediate disciplinary and legal action against Gurjar. “This is not merely political rhetoric but a dangerous call to violence,” Joshi said. “We demand that the BJP leadership publicly apologise and hold the MLA accountable.”
As Eid-ul-Azha approaches, the community hopes that law enforcement agencies will safeguard the rights and safety of all citizens. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to promote peace and respect across communities, especially in times of religious significance.
