In Bareilly, Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, president of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council, announced plans for a significant demonstration at Delhi’s Ramlila Ground in light of the ongoing controversy surrounding priest Yati Narsinghanand’s derogatory comments about Prophet Muhammad.
Call for Action Against Narsinghanand
Khan expressed concern over what he perceives as a lack of governmental action against individuals like Narsinghanand, stating, “People like Narsinghanand are insulting the Prophet but no action is being taken against him.” He emphasized that after the Dussehra fair, a large protest will take place in Delhi, stating, “Not only people from Bareilly but from the entire country will participate in it.”
He further indicated that this demonstration would be more than just a dharna or memorandum, as it represents a broader movement against the current state of affairs in the country.
Criticism of Government Policies
Khan criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that his administration favors Sanatan Dharma while discriminating against other religions. He stated that “derogatory comments are being made against the faith of Muslims and their Prophet, but the government is not taking any action.” He claimed that “two types of laws are running in the country – one for common citizens and the other for Muslims.”
Khan also addressed the issue of individuals who convert from Islam to other religions, suggesting that Islam does not need such people. He condemned certain organizations and individuals for making offensive statements against respected figures, arguing that this behavior incites unrest within the country.
Demand for Government Accountability
Khan demanded that the government take strict action against those making derogatory comments to maintain peace and harmony.
Legal Action Against Narsinghanand and Associates
On October 3, Sub-inspector Trivendra Singh filed an FIR against Narsinghanand, claiming he made derogatory remarks during an event at Hindi Bhavan in Lohiya Naga on September 19. This was categorized as a violation of Section 302 of BNS.
Additionally, another FIR was lodged by Bhanu Prakash Singh, the area beat in-charge of the Dasna police station. This complaint implicates Narsinghanand’s followers—Anil Yadav Chota Narsimahanand, Yati Ran Singhanand, Yati Ram Swaroopanand, and Yati Nirbhayanand—accusing them of making objectionable statements that circulated on social media.