The Hindutva leader’s slur could fuel communal tensions and endanger women’s safety in Karnataka and beyond
BENGALURU – The Muslim community has expressed deep concern after a shocking statement by Karnataka MLA from Bijapur and former minister Basangouda Patil Yatnal promising ₹5 lakh to any Hindu man marrying a Muslim girl. The announcement, made during a meeting with a Hindu youth’s family in Koppal district, has been described as an attempt to provoke and target the minority community.
The video of Yatnal’s remarks has gone viral on social media, drawing condemnation from Muslim groups, women’s rights activists, and opposition politicians. Many see the move as a dangerous political stunt designed to humiliate Muslim families and create mistrust between communities.
“This is not a marriage scheme — this is a communal trap. It aims to use Muslim women as tools in a political game,” said Abdul Rahman, a community leader from Bengaluru. “Our daughters are not prizes to be given away for cash.”
Yatnal, known for his repeated inflammatory remarks, was expelled from the BJP in March this year for six years. Still, his latest speech has reignited debates about political leaders using divisive rhetoric. “From now on, if a Hindu boy marries a Muslim girl, I will give him ₹5 lakh,” Yatnal declared, adding that he plans to start such a campaign soon.
Muslim families in Karnataka fear this could encourage targeted relationships under pressure or manipulation. “We already face enough prejudice. Now leaders like Yatnal are openly encouraging men to hunt for Muslim girls,” said Farhana Begum, a schoolteacher from Bijapur. “This is an insult to our dignity.”
Human rights activists have urged authorities to take action, warning that such speeches could spark unrest. Senior advocate Shabbir Ahmed said, “This is not free speech — it is a clear incitement. If the law is serious about equality, there must be a case registered.”
Opposition leaders have also criticised Yatnal. A Congress spokesperson said the remarks were “a shameless attempt to divide Karnataka on religious lines ahead of elections”.
For many Muslims, this incident is yet another reminder of how political leaders play with communal fault lines for personal gain. “We want peace and respect,” said Mohammed Ashraf, a youth activist. “But every few months, someone comes to insult our community and our women. This cannot continue.”
The controversy has also drawn attention to the pattern of ‘saffron love trap’ rhetoric, where Hindutva voices accuse Muslim men of so-called ‘love jihad’ while simultaneously encouraging Hindu men to marry Muslim women for money or prestige.
Community elders are calling for unity and calm, but the anger remains. As Abdul Rahman put it, “We will not allow our daughters to be dragged into politics. Muslim women are not political trophies — they are human beings deserving of respect.”
