Controversial speeches at Napoklu gathering, including calls to avoid trade with Muslims, draw criticism from community leaders and citizens
BHATKAL — A controversy has erupted in Karnataka after a video of a public meeting in Napoklu went viral, showing speakers allegedly calling for a boycott of Muslims and making remarks that many have described as inflammatory.
The event, held on 1 April in Kodagu district, was organised under the banner of Hindu Raksha Samiti. It was described by organisers as a “Janajagruti Sabha” or awareness meeting.
According to videos circulating on social media, speakers at the gathering urged attendees not to engage in trade or business with non-Hindus, particularly Muslims. Those present at the event were also asked to take a pledge to avoid commercial dealings with the community.
Several controversial claims were reportedly made during the speeches, including references to terms such as “love jihad”, “land jihad”, and “economic jihad”. These claims have been widely disputed in the past by government agencies and investigators.
A resident who watched the video said, “Such statements can create fear among ordinary people. We have lived together for years without problems.”
One of the organisers, Kukkera Ajith, said the event was held in response to a recent incident in which a Hindu man was allegedly attacked in the area.
He said, “We organised this meeting to raise awareness among people. We aim to ensure safety and unity in society.”
However, critics argue that the language used during the event went beyond awareness and could disturb communal harmony.
Members of the Muslim community in the region have expressed deep concern over the developments. Many said such calls for boycott directly affect their livelihoods, as a large number of families depend on small businesses and daily trade.
A shopkeeper from Kodagu said, “We are worried. If people stop buying from us or refuse to do business, how will we survive? We want peace and equal treatment.”
Another resident said, “We are citizens of this country. Targeting us like this is not right. The authorities should take action.”
The issue has also drawn reactions online, with many users criticising the organisers and demanding strict action. Some have also raised questions about whether such events are being allowed without proper checks.
Citizens have urged the government led by Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar to intervene.
A social activist said, “The government must act quickly. Any speech that targets a community and calls for a boycott should not be ignored.”
Demand for Legal Action
Following the spread of the video, several community members have demanded that cases be registered against those responsible for the speeches.
They have called for strict punishment, saying it is necessary to maintain peace and prevent further tension.
A community representative said, “We are not asking for anything special. We only want protection under the law and action against those who spread hate.”
As of now, there has been no official statement from the Kodagu district administration or police authorities regarding the video or the allegations.
Observers say the coming days will be important in determining whether any legal steps are taken.
The incident has once again brought attention to the need for maintaining communal harmony in diverse regions like Karnataka.
Local elders from different communities have appealed for calm.
One senior citizen said, “We have always lived together peacefully. Problems should be solved through dialogue, not by dividing people.”
