Police yet to confirm action as Islamophobic video circulates widely on social media
FARIDABAD — A controversy has erupted in Faridabad after a video surfaced on social media showing religious figure Mahant Raju Das making inflammatory remarks about the Muslim community during a Hindu conference.
The speech, delivered at an event described as a “Hindu Sammelan”, has triggered strong reactions from members of the Muslim community, who have condemned the remarks as hateful and divisive.
In the widely circulated video, Mahant Raju Das is heard referring to the Partition of India, raising issues related to temple construction, alleged religious conversions, and demographic change. During the speech, he allegedly used derogatory language while criticising Muslims and called upon Hindus to unite.
Several Muslim community representatives have described the speech as “deeply offensive” and said it has hurt religious sentiments.
A local community leader said, “Such language has no place in a democratic and secular country. These kinds of statements disturb communal harmony and create unnecessary fear.”
During the address, the Mahant reportedly referred to the creation of Pakistan at the time of Partition. He questioned why India should not be declared a Hindu nation if Islamic countries exist elsewhere.
He also spoke about the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, stating that it took 500 years for the temple to be built. He claimed that Hindu society must remain vigilant and politically active.
In addition, he raised allegations concerning religious conversion and so-called “love jihad”, asserting that large-scale conversions are taking place across India. However, no official data was cited during the speech to support these claims.
Mahant Raju Das also reportedly referred to arrests linked to an alleged terror investigation involving individuals associated with Al-Falah University, making generalised comments about the religion of those arrested.
Legal experts note that ongoing investigations are subject to due process and that sweeping statements about any community based on individual allegations can be legally and socially problematic.
Following the circulation of the video, members of the Muslim community in Faridabad expressed strong resentment. Some have demanded legal action, arguing that the speech promotes hatred and threatens social harmony.
One resident said, “We believe in peaceful coexistence. Statements like these damage trust between communities.”
Another community representative urged authorities to intervene, saying, “If such speeches go unchecked, they can create tension at the ground level.”
As of now, there has been no official confirmation from local police regarding whether a formal complaint has been registered or whether an investigation has been initiated.
Officials have urged citizens not to spread unverified content and to maintain peace.
A senior officer stated, “We appeal to everyone to remain calm. Any complaint received will be examined in accordance with the law.”
Incidents involving alleged hate speech have increasingly drawn attention across various states, raising concerns about communal harmony and freedom of expression.
Legal analysts point out that Indian law provides safeguards against speech that promotes enmity between communities, while also protecting constitutional rights to expression, making such cases legally sensitive.
For now, the situation in Faridabad remains tense but under control, with community leaders calling for restraint and lawful action.
Authorities are expected to monitor developments closely to ensure that law and order is maintained.
