A speaker at the ‘Shaurya Yatra’ rally reportedly demonised Muslims as terrorists and used derogatory language
NEW DELHI — Members of some Hindutva organisations on Monday raised offensive and provocative slogans near Jama Masjid in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani city. The development came as Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) organised a “Shaurya Yatra” (Valour March) in the city.
Monday’s incident is part of a pattern of similar events held by these organisations across India, which often feature hate speech, the brandishing of weapons, and the targeting of Muslim communities and religious sites.
Details available on the incident reveals a speaker at the rally reportedly demonised Muslims as terrorists and used derogatory language, blaming them for issues like the caste system.
The event also reportedly involved stone-pelting at the procession, which led to police intervention and an assurance of action against “anti-social elements” by authorities.
Bajrang Dal and VHP have frequently used the “Shaurya Yatra” events to glorify the 1992 demolition of the Babri Masjid and call for similar actions at other mosques in Kashi and Mathura.
Hindutva groups have been accused of raising provocative and Islamophobic slogans outside mosques, often during religious processions or rallies. These slogans maligning the Mughals and casting aspersions on Muslims’ patriotism are seen as attempts to intimidate the community and create communal tension. Such incidents have been reported in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad, sparking concerns about rising Islamophobia and hate speech in the country.
These provocative actions often lead to clashes and violence, further polarising communities. Critics argue that authorities need to take stricter action against those spreading hate speech, regardless of their affiliation.
