On Monday (March 9), Rane announced his government’s policy to issue Malhar certification to Hindu vendors and said, “A new concept has been launched for jhatka mutton in the form of Malhar certification for the Hindu community of Maharashtra. This will help Hindus identify mutton shops owned by Hindus, who will sell unadulterated meat. The initiative will empower Hindu traders, and I urge Hindus to refrain from buying mutton from shops that do not carry the Malhar certification” (The Indian Express, March 10, 2025).

At first glance, this certification practice appears anti-Muslim, as it lays the groundwork for an economic boycott of the Muslim minority. In reality, it imposes a form of economic apartheid on Muslims, further segregating them from the mainstream economy.

However, while this policy is promoted as an initiative to economically empower Khatik caste members, who belong to the Dalit community, it ultimately reinforces the Brahminical social order. By endorsing caste-based occupations, it stifles opportunities for upward mobility and entrenches the caste hierarchy. Such a policy grossly violates the principles of equality and secularism enshrined in the Indian Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

For example, Article 16 of the Constitution addresses Fundamental Rights and guarantees “equality of opportunity for all citizens in matters relating to employment or appointment to any office under the State.” Similarly, Article 16 forbids the state from discriminating against citizens based on “religion, race, caste, sex, descent, place of birth,” etc.

The UDHR, which was adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations on December 10, 1948, to which India is a signatory, is also against discrimination based on religion. As stated in Article 2 of the UDHR, “Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status.”

It is unfortunate that the official web portal designed to issue ‘Jhatka’ meat certificates is carrying forward the Hindutva agenda of spreading anti-Muslim propaganda. The web portal (accessed on March 12) introduces itself by stating that “Malhar is a certified platform for Jhatka mutton and chicken vendors. It ensures that goat and sheep meat, sacrificed according to Hindu religious traditions, is fresh, clean, free from saliva contamination, and not mixed with any other animal meat. This meat is available exclusively through Hindu Khatik community vendors. Therefore, we encourage everyone to purchase mutton only from vendors certified by Malhar.”

The web portal deliberately uses phrases like “free from saliva contamination” and “not mixed with any other animal meat.” These terms perpetuate the Hindutva propaganda that Muslims deliberately contaminate meat, edible products, and drinks with their “saliva” before handing them over to Hindus. Their anti-Muslim narrative, claiming that Muslim meat-sellers add beef to mutton to hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus and corrupt their religion, is now being reinforced by official policy.

These words feed into the Hindutva propaganda of “spit-jihad” which accuses Muslims of contaminating food. Several BJP-ruled states have recently introduced draconian guidelines to prevent so-called cases of “spit-jihad,” a term invented to further isolate Muslim vendors, restaurant owners, and traders.

It appears that under the guise of maintaining hygiene and ensuring cleanliness, Hindutva governments are enforcing a new regime of untouchability on the minority Muslim community and Dalits. The larger strategy of the Hindu right is to increase anti-Muslim prejudice in society and portray Muslims as a threat to the Hindu community.

The Hindutva campaign for ‘Jhatka’ meat is less about respecting religious sentiment and more about imposing economic apartheid on Muslims. ‘Jhatka’ is a method of slaughtering animals for meat by a single blow of the sword. In contrast, Muslims use the ‘Halal’ method, which involves cutting the animal’s throat with a sharp knife in one stroke while reciting the name of Allah.

While different methods of slaughtering animals have long been prevalent in society, a large portion of the population didn’t pay much attention to the method used. However, the rise of communal politics has made the ‘Halal’ versus ‘Jhatka’ meat debate a polarizing issue. Now, Hindutva forces are exploiting it to enforce an economic boycott of Muslims and perpetuate the caste-based Brahminical social order.

The Khatik community, a Scheduled Caste, is socially, educationally, and economically disadvantaged. Many Khatik community members work as labourers, and some run small meat and chicken shops to earn their livelihood. By promoting ‘Jhatka’ meat, the BJP government in Maharashtra is attempting to woo the Khatik community.

However, the dark side of this policy is that the method of ‘Jhatka’ meat has been tied to sacrifices performed “according to Hindu religious traditions.” The consequence of such a policy is the further Hinduization of the Khatik community and the reinforcement of caste-based hereditary occupations. According to the website, the certificates for ‘Jhatka’ meat are issued “exclusively” to “Hindu Khatik community vendors.” Notably, the primary identity of the Khatik as Dalit and Ambedkarite has been overshadowed by the term “Hindu.”

Two critical issues are involved here. First, how can the State launch a scheme that includes or excludes applicants based on religion? This seems to be a clear violation of the secular ideals of the Constitution, and the judiciary should examine its legal validity.

Second, Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar strongly opposed the caste system because it restricts social mobility and assigns individuals an occupation based on their caste, in gross violation of the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity. Ambedkar, therefore, advocated for the annihilation of the caste system, not only because it oppresses Dalits, lower castes, and women, but also because it contributes to the backwardness of the country by creating a “division of labourers.” The Brahminical caste-based division of labour, which Babasaheb opposed throughout his life, is being reinforced in his own land, and every Ambedkarite and democratically minded person must come forward to oppose it.

(Dr. Abhay Kumar holds a PhD in Modern History from the Centre for Historical Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University. His book on Muslim Personal Law is forthcoming. Email: debatingissues@gmail.com)

Disclaimer: The views expressed here are the author’s personal views, and do not necessarily represent the views of Sabrangindia.

The post Hindutva push for ‘Jhatka’ meat is a Brahminical & anti-Muslim agenda appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Similarly, T Raja Singh, notorious for his divisive views, has with his statements about “Ghazwa-e-Hind,” a theory that frames Muslims as a threat to India’s identity. Alongside these leaders, right-wing influencer Kajal Hindustani has propagated harmful stereotypes and hate against Muslims.

Nitesh Rane: spreading misinformation and suspicion through alleged theories of ‘Love Jihad’ and ‘Land Jihad’

Nitesh Rane, the BJP MLA from Kankavli in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra and now the Maharashtra Ports and Fisheries Minister, has emerged as one of the most vocal proponents of aggressive hate speech in the state. Many of his speeches from February 2025 have caused a significant uproar, raising concerns for the social climate in the state. 

February 20, 2025 

February 20, during a public felicitation event at Jagadguru Ramanandacharya Shri Swami Narendracharayaji Maharaj Nanijdhama in Ratnagiri, BJP MLA Nitesh Rane delivered a hate-filled speech targeting Muslims. 

Rane in his speech said that, “Because issues like Love Jihad and Land Jihad are actively happening around us. Through Love Jihad and religious conversion, a large-scale effort is underway to bring countless Hindu mothers and sisters into Islam by those engaging in Jihad.”

He propagated unfounded conspiracies about ‘love jihad’ and ‘land jihad,’ intensifying his rhetoric by labelling Muslims as “jihadis.” Rane also criticised Mazhars and Dargahs, claiming that the said structures “pop up anywhere,”.

He further added that, “I have initiated a program through my ministry to make our 720-kilometer coastline Jihad- free. Therefore, in all these matters, it is extremely important for me to receive Swamiji’s guidance and blessings from time to time. All the illegal activities happening around us—wherever you look, spreading the green cloth, building mazars and tombs everywhere—against all this, our Maharashtra government will take a firm stand without any Hindutva-based bias. On this occasion, I assure Swamiji of this today.”

His words not only spread fear but are also baseless accusations against an entire religious community. His speech serves as another example of the dangerous rhetoric emerging from political figures in the region.

The video of speech can be seen here:

February 19, 2025 

On February 19, at a Shiv Jayanti event organised by the VHP and Bajrang Dal in Sawantwadi, Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, BJP MLA Nitesh Rane delivered a series of inflammatory remarks targeting Muslims. He boldly declared, “This is a Hinduwadi government,” and went on to threaten that in Sindhudurg, anyone who even “looks at Hindus in an incorrect manner” would face consequences, urging people to contact him directly to “settle it before next Friday.”

Rane said that, “the Chief Minister is a staunch Hindutva. If anyone in this Sawantwadi, this Sindhudurga, keep evil eye at my Hindu religion, just give me a call, I will make sure that he doesn’t go to that place again on Friday. Don’t worry about anything.”

He also labelled Muslims as “green snakes,” who are involved in a deep-rooted conspiracy against Hindus. Rane’s speeches continued in this vein throughout the month of February, spreading more hateful conspiracy theories, and even suggesting that if Muslims “looked at Hindus in an incorrect manner,” they would face consequences. He stated that, “Our government is very bad. What is going on around I am aware of everything. You don’t have to struggle. Wherever something wrong is happening, wherever someone tries to slaughter a cow, wherever someone tries to smuggle, wherever green snakes try to wriggle, just make one call, and leave the rest of the arrangements to me.”

The video of speech can be seen here:

February 8, 2025 

On February 8, at the Hindu Rashtra Adhiveshan organised by the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti in Kudal, Sindhudurg, BJP MLA Nitesh Rane delivered a divisive speech, alleging that ‘jihadis’ were targeting Hindu temples and again referring to Muslims as ‘green snakes.’ He said that India is a Hindu nation and alleged that Muslims were conspiring to turn the country into an Islamic state by 2047. Rane then propagated the baseless conspiracies of ‘love jihad’ and ‘land jihad,’ fearmongering about the supposed Islamization of India. He accused Muslims of attempting to seize Hindu lands and religious sites, symbolically covering them with a ‘green shroud.’ 

Nitesh Rane’s speech is deeply problematic due to its divisive and inflammatory nature. He quite deliberately, and repeatedly perpetuates harmful stereotypes and spreads fear by framing certain religious communities as a threat to Hindu society. His speech begins with claims of “Love Jihad,” “Land Jihad,” and references to the “Waqf Board,” which without evidence, target Muslims and imply a coordinated effort against Hindus:

“While taking out these rallies, there were some cases of Love Jihad, some cases of Land Jihad, and some cases related to the Waqf Board. We, as the Sakal Hindu Samaj, took out those rallies and went to meet the affected families and we tried to provide them justice. How far have these Islamization and Jihadisation people reached? How much has their courage grown? You all should all imagine this. You people should be able to guess where the danger is from.”

This statement fuels unfounded fear and animosity, casting Muslims as a monolithic and hostile group. He further stokes this narrative by discussing the supposed encroachment of Muslims on religious sites, such as temples:

“I always wonder—if you want to spread Islam, why do you always target our temple lands? If you want to build a mosque or a dargah, then buy an open piece of land yourselves and say, ‘We want to build a mosque here, a dargah here.’ But they always want to do these things on the land of our temples.”

Such rhetoric incites division, mistrust, and hostility. He concludes by framing this as a grand conspiracy:

“By 2047, they want to turn our Hindu nation into an Islamic nation. Their evil eyes are on the temples, and we should be moving towards ensuring how to keep them safe,” Rane Said.

Rane referred Savarkar in his speech and said, “Swatantryaveer Savarkar has written very well that the Hindu society suffers more from Hindus themselves than from Muslims. Some of these people ask me how I can call it a Hindu nation, as it does not fit within the Constitution.”

The video of speech can be seen here:

February 5, 2025 

On February 5, at a public event organised by a coalition of far-right groups in Wagholi, Pune, BJP MLA Rane delivered an inflammatory anti-Muslim hate speech, propagating the baseless conspiracies of ‘land jihad’ and ‘love jihad,’ while falsely claiming that Muslims aim to turn India into an Islamic state. 

During his speech, he urged Hindus to rent homes only to fellow Hindus, warning that “it starts with one Aslam, and then you have a hundred Aslams.” Targeting the azaan, he claimed that if Hindus rented to Muslims, soon they would be overrun and the azaan would echo five times a day. He openly advocated for housing discrimination, urging the audience to “just declare that you don’t rent to non-Hindus.” Rane further fuelled the conspiracy of ‘love jihad,’ continuing to spread baseless fears of a demographic threat.

The video of speech can be seen here:

February 3, 2025 

On February 3, in Chandrapur, Rane made a chilling threat towards Muslims, declaring that acts like “Love Jihad,” “Land Jihad,” and “cow slaughter” would no longer be tolerated. At a religious assembly, Rane openly warned the minority religious community, stating that the state had a Hindutva-based government, and if these issues persisted, they would take direct action.

He was quoted as saying:

“If these people sporting beards do not stop this Love Jihad, Land Jihad, and the drama against Hindu society in time, then even those sitting in Pakistan will not be able to recognize you. I guarantee.”

His rhetoric targets Muslims as a collective threat to Hindu society, presenting them as part of a grand conspiracy to turn India into an Islamic nation by 2047. The speech perpetuates harmful myths such as “Love Jihad” and “Land Jihad,” which have no basis in reality but are used to fuel hatred and division. Rane asserts:

“When the police conducted their inquiry and asked what exactly they were plotting here, they responded by saying that their goal is to make India an Islamic nation by 2047, and all their efforts are directed towards achieving that.”

This unfounded claim creates an atmosphere of fear and suspicion, portraying Muslims as scheming to overthrow the country’s demographic makeup.

He continues with further inflammatory statements:

“Because in the beginning, only one comes. Just one—someone named Aslam. And then he will bring 100 more Aslams along with him. He will start cooking food that we don’t prefer, and because of that smell, the Hindu community will begin to leave. Then, five times a day, their loudspeakers will start blaring.”

This passage not only reinforces the idea of Muslims as an invasive force but also promotes communal fear by linking Muslims to undesirable behaviour.

Additionally, Rane makes claims about “Love Jihad,” where he manipulates personal stories to push the narrative of Hindu girls being brainwashed:

“I have met sisters who have been victims of Love Jihad. You would be shocked to see their miserable condition. These girls are brainwashed to the extent that they refuse to recognize their own parents.”

This kind of rhetoric is not new for Rane, who has long harboured views that fuel communal animosity. At this event, he claimed that a strict law against religious conversions would be introduced in Maharashtra. He further warned Muslims involved in such acts of “trapping” Hindu women that the government would deal with them harshly, reinforcing the idea of an aggressive, intolerant Hindutva ideology.

The video of speech can be seen here:

Maharashtra Ports and Fisheries Minister #NiteshRane on Monday sounded a stern warning to a particular community, stating that “Love jihad, Land Jihad, and cow slaughter” will not be tolerated. He emphasised that the state has a #Hindutva-oriented government and discussed the… pic.twitter.com/OZfJAUR67L

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) February 4, 2025

Recently, two FIRs were filed against Nitesh Rane for alleged hate speech targeting Muslims in Ahmednagar. Both FIRs were filed by the Ahmednagar Police against Nitesh Rane for his controversial remark. Rakesh Ola, the Superintendent of Police in Ahmednagar, confirmed the registration of two FIRs—one on September 1, 2024, and the other on September 2, 2024. These FIRs were filed at the Shrirampur and Topkhana police stations, respectively. Rane made his speeches during public meetings in the Shrirampur and Topkhana, in support of Hindu seer Mahant Ramgiri Maharaj, who had made derogatory remarks about Islam and Prophet Muhammad. Rane warned of repercussions if the Maharaj was harmed. In his address, Rane had said, “If anything happens to Maharaj, there will be repercussions. I’m going to give this threat in the language which you understand. If you have done anything against our Ramgiri Maharaj, we will kill you after barging into your mosques. You must remember this threat,” Rane had said, reported Times of India.

On September 5, an FIR was also filed against Nitesh Rane for his hate speech. The case was registered by the Gittikhadan police in Nagpur under sections 196, 299, 302, 352, and 353(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The FIR follows a complaint lodged by Mohammed Yunus Patel (47), a resident of Awasthi Nagar in South Nagpur, who alleged that Rane hurt the religious sentiments of a specific community during a speech he delivered in Ahmednagar on September 1, 2024, as HT reported.

Rane’s rhetoric, including claims of Love Jihad and Land Jihad, is not an isolated incident but part of a wider strategy by certain BJP leaders to stoke communal fears for political leverage.

T Raja Singh: Escalating divisive narratives

T Raja Singh, BJP’s MLA from Goshamahal in Hyderabad, is notorious for his controversial and often extremist views. His speech at the Deccan Summit in Pune on February 8, 2025, only further reinforced his reputation. Singh stirred the pot by promoting the divisive conspiracy theory of “Ghazwa-e-Hind,” falsely claiming that Muslims were plotting to turn India into an Islamic nation.

“They have another Pakistan inside India, these land jihadis.”

Singh went on to misrepresent historical events and figures, wrongly alleging that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had declared that Muslims had the first right to India’s resources. 

His rhetoric also targeted religious educational institutions, especially Madrasas, and he called for the construction of temples in historically disputed locations like Kashi, Mathura, Bhojshala, and Sambhal, where Mosques stand at the moment. In his mind, these temples, built after destroying the current Islamic religious structures, would “remove the stains” from these sacred sites, promoting the idea of religious purity while targeting Islamic places of worship.

Singh’s speeches only contribute to a growing sense of fear and mistrust between India’s communities, feeding into a larger narrative of religious confrontation and division.

The video of speech can be seen here:

Kajal Hindustani: A right-wing influencer encouraging harmful communal divisions

February 19, 2025 

Kajal Hindustani is another key figure spreading dangerous communal poison. At a Shiv Jayanti event in Nagpur on February 19, Hindustani not only pushed the harmful “love jihad” narrative but also revived harmful stereotypes about Muslims. She referred to Muslims as “jihadis,” equating them with violence and radicalism. Additionally, she launched an attack on the Muslim practice of Azaan, fuelling the existing prejudice against Islamic religious practices.

This kind of speech is highly problematic, as it promotes an environment where one community’s practices and identity are vilified and targeted. Hindustani’s reach as an influencer amplifies her harmful messages, reaching a much wider audience.

The video of speech can be seen here:

Following the complaint filed by Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) on October 25, 2024, against Kajal Shingala, also known as Kajal Hindustani, for delivering an anti-Muslim hate speech at an event in Thane, an FIR was registered on October 30, 2024, at the Wagle Estate Police Station in Thane. The FIR charges Hindustani under sections 299, 302, and 353 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which address offenses related to promoting religious animosity and public mischief. In addition, the event’s organizer, Veer Bahadur Yadav, was also booked for his involvement in permitting the speech. 

Ashwini Upadhyaya: Legitimising hate and conspiracy theories

February 20, 2025 

Ashwini Upadhyaya, a Supreme Court lawyer and prominent BJP leader, has also been vocal in spreading far-right narratives. On February 20, at a lecture on the Indian Constitution in Parbhani, he advocated for the restoration of “historic sacred places” like Kashi, Mathura, and Bhojshala, referring to which he claimed that the Mosque had been built after destroying temples. This rhetoric is rooted in the ideological push for the Ram Mandir, built at the destruction site of Babri Majid, and other religious sites to be reclaimed as symbols of Hindu supremacy.

The video of speech can be seen here:

Upadhyaya’s speeches are filled with conspiracy theories, including baseless claims about “love jihad” and “land jihad.” He further exacerbated these fears by drawing on international examples, citing China and Israel as models for population control measures. Linking population control to “love jihad” reflects a troubling trend where he frames demographic changes, especially Muslim migration, as a grave threat to India’s Hindu identity.

February 11, 2025 

On February 11, in Raigarh, Upadhyaya made statements about “infiltration jihad” and the alleged presence of six crore “infiltrators” in India, many of whom, according to him, were Muslims. Such claims serve no purpose other than to stoke fear and division in society.

The video of speech can be seen here:

February 2, 2025 

On February 2, in Pune, at the V.D. Savarkar Memorial Lectures organized by Swanand Janakalyan Pratishthan, Supreme Court lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay demonized Muslims by selectively citing cases where Hindu women were murdered by Muslim men. He stirred fear about ‘infiltration’ and led the audience in an oath against alleged ‘land jihad’ and ‘love jihad,’ promoting unfounded and divisive claims about demographic threats.

The video of speech can be seen here:

The role of Hindu Janajagruti Samiti: furthering hate and division

Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, a far-right organisation, also plays a significant role in spreading of conspiracies and peddling hatred with potential to harm our social fabric and harmony. On February 3, during a press conference on Bangladeshi ‘infiltrators’ at Marathi Patrakar Sangh, Mumbai, organized by Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, Sanatan Sanstha leader Abhay Vartak claimed that on alleged Bangladeshi “infiltrators,”. Abhay Vartak, claimed that up to ten lakh Bangladeshi immigrants live in Mumbai, which he linked to an increase in crimes and unemployment. His remarks were clearly aimed at inciting fear and suspicion towards the Muslims living in Mumbai, holding them responsible for collectively attacking the Indian economy. Vartak further promoted the conspiracy of “land jihad” and “love jihad,” underscoring how these controversial and harmful ideas are being propagated at multiple levels.

The impact of hate speech on Maharashtra and beyond

The hate-filled speeches delivered by these lawmakers and influencers are not only harming Maharashtra’s social fabric but also endangering the unity of the nation. Such rhetoric creates an environment where one minority community feels persecuted, that can lead to a cycle of hate and retaliation. Moreover, these statements are dangerous as they normalize a call for violence and discrimination against a particular religious community, portraying them as collectively acceptable responses to perceived grievances.

By invoking divisive terms like “love jihad,” “land jihad,” and “infiltration jihad,” these above-mentioned leaders are playing on people’s fears, creating imaginary threats to the nation’s demographic and religious balance. 

Furthermore, these speeches shrinking the very foundation of India’s secular democracy, where all religions are meant to be treated equally. Instead, they promote a vision of India where one religion is dominant and all others are viewed with suspicion and hostility.

The role of authorities in curbing hate speech

The time has come for a serious conversation about the accountability of public figures, particularly legislators, who use their platforms to promote hate and division. In Maharashtra, BJP leaders like Nitesh Rane, T Raja Singh, Ashwini Upadhyaya, and others have proven that they are willing to sow communal discord for political gain. Their speeches not only undermine the values of unity and secularism but also pose a grave threat to the fabric of society.

It is critical for the authorities to take swift action against hate speech and hold leaders accountable. The continued silence and inaction will only embolden others to follow in their footsteps, further poisoning the political discourse and deepening the divisions within our society. The future of Maharashtra, and indeed India, depends on the strength of its commitment to secularism, equality, and justice. It is time for the nation to stand united against hate, no matter where it originates.

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The post Leaders and the spread of divisive narratives appeared first on SabrangIndia.

As per National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, Kerala recorded the lowest number of murders in the country between 2018 and 2020, with a rate of 0.08%. In stark contrast, Uttar Pradesh, governed by hard-line Hindutva forces, had the highest murder rate at 15.1%. Kerala’s achievement underscores its status as a “Garden of Peace” amidst the turmoil propagated by states leaning towards communal politics. The success of Kerala’s governance and the peaceful coexistence of its people challenge the divisive ideologies of Hindutva proponents, who seemingly wish to transform Kerala into a jungle of trouble.

A recent controversy further illustrates this antagonism. Maharashtra’s Fisheries and Ports Development Minister, Nitesh Rane, made inflammatory remarks while speaking on the occasion of Shiv Pratap Din, which marks Chhatrapati Shivaji’s historical victory over Afzal Khan. Rane accused those who supported Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in Kerala’s Wayanad constituency of being anti-national. He claimed that the Indian Union Muslim League, an ally of the Congress, worked against national interests and stated, “Kerala is a part of our country, and if anyone works for Pakistan or commits atrocities against Hindus in Kerala, we will have to speak about it. Kerala is ours, and it will remain ours. In the future, Kerala will become ‘Bhagwadhari,’ I am confident about it.” Rane, facing a backlash thereafter was quick to clarify that ‘Kerala was very much part of India,’ though his slurs against the party in power, CPI-M and people of Kerala continued.

Kerala’s Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, condemned Rane’s statement, calling it deeply provocative and deplorable. He highlighted how such remarks reflect the Sangh Parivar’s divisive approach towards Kerala. Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe Patil also criticised Rane and demanded his removal from the Maharashtra cabinet, while Kerala’s Leader of the Opposition, V. D. Satheesan, called the statement a new low in Indian politics and demanded Rane’s resignation. Former Finance Minister of Kerala, Thomas Isaac was succinct in his response too. “We are no mini-Pakistan, you hate monger BJP minister. Kerala is proudly secular, lowest in untouchability practices, educated and healthy. Our per capita income 60 % above the national. It is you Sanghi who wants to make India into Hindutva mirror image of Pakistan.”

#WATCH | Pune: Maharashtra Minister and BJP leader Nitesh Rane, says, “Those who supported and worked for Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in the elections are anti-national. We have this information…All India Muslim League who worked against the nation had worked… pic.twitter.com/MWM7XSaO9m

— ANI (@ANI) December 31, 2024

We are no Mini Pakistan, you hate monger BJP minister.Kerala is proudly secular, lowest in untouchability practices,educated and healthy.Our per capita income 60% above the https://t.co/N0aDy1FXny is you Sanghi who wants to make India into Hindutva mirror image of Pakistan.

— Thomas Isaac (@drthomasisaac) January 1, 2025

Maharashtra Minister #niteshrane‘s comments referring to Kerala as a’mini-Pakistan’ &its people as terrorists is strongly condemned.This really startling statement signals a low point in politics. He has no right to remain in his ministerial position.@RahulGandhi@priyankagandhi

— V D Satheesan (@vdsatheesan) December 30, 2024

https://www.aninews.in/news/national/politics/nitesh-rane-clarifies-mini-pakistan-remark-says-kerala-part-of-india20241230140041/?amp=1

This is not the first instance of Sangh Parivar members targeting Kerala and Rane’s diatribe is not happening in isolation. The controversial film, ‘Kerala Story’, (film maker Vipul Shah, and brazenly promoted by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) selectively portrayed Islam and Muslims in a malevolent manner. On September 30, 2017, leader of their pack and a career criminal, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat accused the governments of Kerala and West Bengal of siding with “jihadi elements.” Chief Minister Vijayan responded sharply, stating that Bhagwat’s comments were baseless and stemmed from the RSS’s inability to gain political traction in Kerala. Earlier this year, on April 7, former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis alleged that Kerala had become a “hotbed of anti-national forces” due to misgovernance and “minority appeasement.”

The repeated targeting of Kerala by Hindutva leaders reveals their discomfort with its inclusive development model, which starkly contrasts their exclusionary ideology. The Sangh Parivar’s rhetoric often hinges on creating divisions and fostering communal disharmony. Kerala, with its progressive policies and rejection of such divisive narratives, serves as a thorn in their side.

It is evident that organisations like the RSS thrive on minority hatred, sustained by the venom of Hindutva. Their modus operandi resembles the mythical demon Ravana, whose heads multiplied upon being cut off. Each attempt to disrupt Kerala’s harmony only strengthens the resolve of its people to resist communal forces. As Kerala continues to uphold the values of pluralism and progress, it stands as a beacon of hope against the tide of divisive politics sweeping parts of the nation.

Sadly, the Supreme Court’s guidelines on hate speech issued in October 2022, directing the police forces in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Uttarakhand to take suo moto action against individuals making hate speeches, irrespective of the religious community they belong to, remain a dead letter. This lack of enforcement perpetuates a climate of impunity and encourages those who seek to sow seeds of division through their hate speech.

Related:

The real Kerala story

Legal Pledges Fall Short: Hate speech prosecutions stalled in Maharashtra

The post From God’s Own Country to a Hindutva Target: Kerala’s Model of Harmony Faces Persistent Threats appeared first on SabrangIndia.

The reported hate speeches repeatedly denigrate Muslim community by spreading conspiracy theories about ‘love jihad’, ‘land jihad’, and ‘population jihad’, apart from threatening physical violence and social ostracisation. The now demolished Babri Masjid and Madrasas remain other sites of constant barrage by the speakers.

This week, on April 8, 2024, we dispatched all the three complaints to the Superintendents of Police (SPs) and District Magistrates (DMs), urging prompt action, beginning with registration of complaints and investigation in these cases. Additionally, all the complaints sent through email have been marked to the Director General of Police (DGP) of the state, Rashmi Shukla. Evidence of the videos of these controversial speeches have also been provided. In these complaints, CJP has urged registration of offences under IPC Sections 153A (promoting enmity) and 505 (statements conducing public mischief). We have invoked the binding judicial order of the Supreme Court in the Shaheen Abdullah vs Union of Indian (Writ Petition (Civil) 940/2022), which mandate the police to suo moto register cases in incidents of hate speeches, as per the relevant provisions of the law. 

Details of the hate speeches

Ghatkopar 

On March 10, Nitesh Rane delivered a fiery hate speech at the event organized by Sakal Hindi Samaj in Ghatkopar, urging members of Hindu society to boycott Muslim hawkers, whom he indirectly referred as Jihadis and illegal Bangladeshi Rohingyas. He assurance the crowd that the government is on their side and not to worry about anything else, suggesting violence against them. Importantly, Rane was previously booked by Mumbai Police for giving anti-Muslim hate speech during this Solapur rally in January 2024. 

The extract from his Ghatkopar speech reads, “Take an oath, if you see any hawker anywhere…we will not allow him to stand here. And if we still see him standing here, we will not apply saffron on ourselves again. Keep in mind, everything was caught on camera! The more you show this, the more these Jihadis, these Bangladeshi Rohingyas will think of destroying Mumbai, so please keep in mind. If any hawker here sees us from tomorrow, I will tell all my Hindu brothers, my brothers, sisters, friends, the government is with you, don’t worry about anything.”

In this case, we sent our complaint to Balwant Deshmukh (Senior Police Inspector, Ghatkopar Police Station) and Rajendra Shankar Kshirsagar (Collector and District Magistrate, Mumbai Suburban District) asking them to invoke IPC Sections 153A, and 505 (1) and (2).

The complaint may be read here:

Akola 

Another speech by Nitesh Rane was reported from the event organised by Sakal Hindu Samaj on 18 February in Nimba village, Balapur, Akola. In this speech Rane charged at Muslims, and alluding to Babri Masjid and Tipu Sultan, accused them of Islamising historical monuments and places. Furthermore, he engaged in fearmongering by falsely claiming that Muslims are on a mission to reduce Hindu population, thus promoting fake conspiracy theory, often named ‘population jihad’. 

The extract from his Akola speech reads, “…Now there is no benefit in further insulting the person whose name is Jalil. His parents have named him Jalil. What else should I do to him? But remember, brothers, the purpose for which he came here. The miscreants here are doing the work of reducing the population of the Hindu community, driving away the Hindu community from here and creating an Islamic nation in the name of this party…These people are praising Tipu. What did that bastard do…if anyone has converted more Hindus, it is Tipu…And the name of that Tipu has been given to our auditorium here…You should change that name in time otherwise Nitesh Rane will blacken that board and you will not be able to do anything.”

In this case, we sent our complaint to Bachchan Singh (Superintendent of Police, Akola) and Ajit Kumbhar (Collector and District Magistrate, Akola) asking them to invoke IPC Sections 153A, and 505 (1) and (2).

The complaint may be read here:

Mahabaleshwar 

A senior lawyer and BJP leader Ashwini Upadhyay made a divisive speech at the event in Mahabaleshwar on January 26, attacking Madrasas and asking for the removal of minority status of Muslims. His speech, employing a now familiar theory of population jihad, argued that Muslims have abundant majority, and are unduly influencing electoral process. He went on to allege that even our election to select MLAs and MPs is ostensibly overpowered by the Muslim population. Notably, Upadhyay was previously booked by Delhi Police for organising an event at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi in 2021 during which provocative slogans were raised against Muslim community.

The extract from his Mahabaleshwar speech reads, “There is a disturbance across the world due to Madrasas. Is there unrest or not? …In those Madrasas in which they do not teach Indian culture, tradition, or way of life, why should we run such schools? Those who are numbered in crores, they decide who will be your MP or MLA, that community which determines the winning margin (of a candidate), and decides who will your councillor, Pradhan, MLA, or MP, does that community deserve the status of minority? There is no need of minority in India.”

In this case, we sent our complaint to Sameer Shaikh (Superintendent of Police, Satara) and Jitendra Dudi (Collector and District Magistrate, Satara) asking them to invoke IPC Sections 153A, and 505 (1) and (2). 

The complaint may be read here:

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The post CJP files three more police complaints against hate speeches delivered by Nitesh Rane and Ashwini Upadhyay appeared first on SabrangIndia.

As per a report in Bar&Bench, while issuing the direction, the division bench of Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Manjusha Deshpande remarked that it prima facie found from the speech transcript that some offence seemed to have been committed. However, as stated by the bench, in order to avoid any partiality or political pressure, it would be best if the police commissioners personally examine the videos and transcripts of the speeches.

It is essential to highlight here that the same division bench of the Bombay HC had given permission to BJP MLA T.Raja Singh to take out a rally in Mira Road in February after the state police had denied him permission. Justices R.P. Mohite Dere and Manusha Ajay Deshpande had granted permission to Singh to conduct the proposed rally on the conditions that no hate speeches are made and that the event is videotaped by the police so that required action can be taken post the event takes place and suo-moto FIRs can be filed, if necessary. (The details can be read here.)

It is essential to note that the Court also took exception of the press conference held by BJP MLA Nitesh Rane from the police commissioner’s office in Mira-Bhayander. As per the report, the Court found the same to be “unacceptable”.

“Police premises should not be used for such events henceforth. It would lead to deterioration of confidence of citizens in police as also the trust that police are impartial,” the Bench remarked upon the same.

In reference to this, the bench also expressed its displeasure over the conduct of the police by remarking that such FIRs only reduced the police’s reputation, as it gave out a signal that anyone can hold a rally and say anything.

“FIR under Section 188 is just watering down your own authority and reputation. Would the same action be taken if the petitioners come to Azad Maidan (in Mumbai) tomorrow and decide to hold a rally? And why couldn’t the rally be stopped midway if you find that it is happening illegally?”

As per the report of Bar&Bench, Chief Public Prosecutor Hiten Venegaonkar for the State government responded to the question put forth by the court by stating that such cultural rallies, like those held annually on Ram Navami, were difficult to control and manage.

However, the Court directed the police to ensure that no untoward incident happens during the upcoming Ram Navami festival on April 17.

Notably, the petition has been posted for hearing on April 15.

The petition:

The five petitioners who have moved the said plea are residents of Mumbai, including two who were themselves victims of the violence that had taken place in Mira Road on January 22. (Full details can be read here.)

The petition has emphasised upon filing of FIR against the three for allegedly delivering hate speeches by providing in the petition that “if action is not taken against individual like MLA Nitesh Rane, MLA Geeta Jain, and Legislator T. Raja Singh for spreading hate speech and inciting violence, the same may embolden them as well as other political leaders to resort to hate speech and incitement with the sole aim of polarizing the citizens for votes. It is submitted that the same may not only result in widespread violence, but shall also hamper free and fair elections, which are part of the basic structure of the Constitution of India”.

The main contention raised by the petitioners through the writ petition is that the state police had an obligation to file the suo-moto FIRs against those making hate speeches, as had been necessitated by the Supreme Court for India in its October 2022 and January 13 order. In the said orders. Notably, the orders had directed all State and Union Territories to take suo-moto action against hate speeches that are in contravention to the secular character of the country. The bench had directed the police officer to invoke their powers and file cases against those hate speakers without giving any regards to their religion (the details of the said order can be read here).

The petitioners have sought directions to the police to register FIRs against MLAs Nitesh Rane, Geeta Jain, and T. Raja Singh under sections 153, 153A, 153B, 295A, 504, and 505 of the IPC for allegedly having delivered hate speeches in Mira Road, Govandi, and Ghatkopar on various dates.

Further details of the writ petition along with the transcription of the speeches can be read here.

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The post Bombay HC directs two police commissioners to personally examine videos of speeches delivered by BJP MLA Nitesh Rana, Geeta Jain and T. Raja Singh appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Posters calling from “Bhumi Jihad mukt Malwani” (Malwani free of ‘Land Jihad’), ‘Hindu Palayan bandh karo’ (Stop Hindu exodus) were also seen held up at the rally.

Starting with Jai Sri Ram, a man leading the march spoke, ‘In Mumbai city, one community has taken land belonging to the administration and they have opened various business of ‘charas, ganja’, and have brought Rohingya and Bangladeshi to create ‘dange’. We have initiated this rally, with all other rallies, today. We warn today against the ‘bhu-mafia’, under Narendra Modi’s leadership and Mahrahashtra’s Ajit dada and Devendra Fadnavis’ government, that we strongly come against the various ‘bhedbhaav’ by these people.”

Another fellow man, responded to the reporter, “Look, in Mumbai’s Malwani, land jihad love jihad is taking place. People are also being forcibly turned into drug users. We are trying to raise awareness against this.”

Khabar Face to Face, an online local news portal, recorded BJP MLA Nitesh Rane responding to reporters, saying, “If anyone tries to do drama or attack Hindu Samaj. In Hanuman Jayanti, Ram Navmi, we have seen stones being pelted, slippers thrown at these marches. If these things, and more things such as land jihad and love jihad are not stopped then we will see to them. We would also like to see how much ‘bravery’ ‘these people’ show. If anyone tries to throw Hindus out, or reduce the Hindu population, we will see to it.” Responding to allegation of Bangladeshis being sheltered, “Action will be taken. This is only a trailer.”

In his speech addressing the crowd, Rane also stated, “Yeh Hindu Rashtra mein Jihadion ka kabhi waqt bhi nahi ayega.”

Rane has recently been in the news. In the wake of the Mira Road attacks on Muslims in Mumbai, he was seen making reportedly incendiary speeches, and even reportedly making tweets that seemed to be encouraging violence.

In early January 2024, Nitesh Rane and another BJP MLA from Telangana who is notorious for his hate speeches, T. Raja Singh had filed against them, along with other people, for reportedly delivering hate speeches during a Hindu Jan Aakrosh rally in Solapur, Maharashtra. The rally was similarly organised by the Sakal Hindu Samaj, and saw participation of various leaders from the umbrella organisation, many of whom are also named in the FIR.

The event, held between Rajendra Chowk and Kanna Chowk took a violent turn as demands were made for the repeal of the central Waqf Board Act. Disturbingly, CCTV footage revealed that the peaceful demonstration escalated into clashes, with at least two people being seen pelting stones at shops. The result was that there were minor injuries to shopkeepers.

The FIR stated that both BJP legislators, Nitesh Rane and T. Raja Singh, delivered hate speeches that targeted the religious sentiments of different communities and charges them under the IPC Section 153A, related to creating enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, and Section 295A which is about deliberate acts intending to outrage religious feelings by insulting a particular religion or its beliefs.

Malwani, is similarly, not alien to incidents of communal unrest. During the Ram Temple inauguration in January 2024, the region had seen unrest after a rally took place in the vicinity. Several locals were arrested after the incident. In 2023, a similar pattern followed, the area has seen instances of violence during the Ram Navmi rallies after Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad had organised a procession from Ram Janki temple at Bajrang Chowk in Ambuj Wadi in Malwani. An FIR was registered against 12 people, all of whom were Muslims, and 400 unidentified people were also named in the complaint. As per Hindustan Times, Malwani, which has a considerable population of Muslims, has been declared a ‘sensitive area’ by the police.

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The post Hindu Jan Akrosh rally in Mumbai sees conspiracy theories against Muslims appeared first on SabrangIndia.

In a video available on social media, he can be seen talking about a generator, he says, “I will put you in the generator and burn you. If you want to maintain law and order situation under control, then you must stop all this illegal activity. It is the police’s responsibility. We have told you and come today. Otherwise, we will come tomorrow and get into the buildings and send all the Bangladeshis to Bangladesh. That’s why we have come to give a final warning. We are giving you a period of 15 days, we are giving this to them, a last chance to the BMC to MAHDA departments. You must sit together and discuss. If anything has wronged or threatens the Hindu Samaj, then whatever we do, we will take up the responsibility. We will not t tolerate. If you want to bully and threaten, we also know how to do it.”

“…You people understand that tomorrow if some big trouble, big riot happens, then whom to arrest, the police do not know. Where these Bangladeshi and Rohingya are coming from, nobody knows…We will let any Bangladeshis take our rightful land. Now under ‘land jihad’, if anyone tries to evict Hindus, then they must know we are all standing here like a wall for our Hindu people.”

This is from #Dongri, #Thane, #Maharashtra.

On February 27, #BJP legislator #NiteshRane openly threatens violence against the alleged migrants from Bangladesh and Rohingya refugees in front of the police.

He also peddled the conspiracy theory of “land jihad.” pic.twitter.com/Y4QFsrjI7V

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) February 28, 2024

In other news, two lawyers and five law students have written an appeal to the Chief Justice of India (CJI). The appeal was the outcome of concerns raised by the Mumbai advocates, law students, and residents of the Govandi Group. The appeal has urged for urgent legal action against Nitesh Rane for his alleged involvement in hate speech during various programs held in Maharashtra in the past few weeks. The appeal has asked for the court to take suo moto cognisance. The letter also reportedly argues that Rane has criticised the MHADA and BMC officials for facilitating ‘land jihad’ in a speech on February 10 by letting ‘Rohingya’ settle in Mankhurd and Govandi.

Following the outbreak of communal violence in Mumbai’s Mira Road in January, Nitesh Rane was allegedly spotted at the scene, making potentially inflammatory statements in the tense locality. Reports also revealed that at the tense duration, Rane posted a provocative message on social media platform X during the heightened tensions, wherein a section of his post included the phrase, “Chun chun ke marenge!!! Jai Shri Ram.”

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The post BJP’s Nitesh Rane gives authorities ultimatum of ‘fifteen days, threatens violence appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Nitesh Rane spoke to the media, stating the following, promising the residents of the area the same consequences as what happened in Mira Road, “Shivaji Nagar will also have the bulldozer. The Hindu here is also not safe. All of our Mankur-Shivajinagar area is becoming a mini-Bangladesh. Today our Hindu samaj stepped on the streets. Today here, a huge number of ‘illegal’ Masjids and madarsa are created by land jihad, these should be removed. Otherwise, we will do whatever we can – with the government. What happened in Mira Road, will happen here too, the bulldozer will be deployed.”

When asked what is the goal of the rally by the media persons present, he replied, “The goal is that the Bangladeshi and Rohingya population have been increasing here like anything.”

After violence struck Mumbai’s Mira Road in January, Nitesh Rane was reportedly witnessed at the site making allegedly incendiary statements in the tense neighbourhood. According to reports, Rane had posted during the tense environment a provocative post on X, wherein a section of his post had the following, “Chun chun ke marenge!!! Jai Shri Ram.”

Moreover, in a speech after the violence took place at Mira Road, Rane can also be reportedly heard stating that the government supports their actions as long as the ‘boss’ is in the ‘bungalow,’ saying “Do anything you want (trouble Muslims) and if police come your way, just call me for help, I’ll assure your safety. Police won’t do anything to me because our boss is sitting at ‘Sagar’ bungalow. If any officers come your way don’t forget to give him or her a tight slap. You don’t need to worry about anything, we’re with you. The government is with you.”

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The post BJP MLA Nitesh Rane leads Hindutva Rally in Govandi, demands demolition of “illegal Masjids and Madrasa” appeared first on SabrangIndia.

In light of these events, on Mid-Day reported on January 29th that the Panvel police have taken out precautionary steps to address concerns about a potential visit by Nitesh Rane to Kachhi Mohalla, in light of his recent speeches. Three people had been injured out of communally charged incidents last week at the area. An officer has stated, according to a report by Mid-Day, “There are discussions that Rane might visit Panvel. So, we have contacted MBVV police and learned how to prevent the large convoy from disappearing in lanes and rampaging in Panvel, where the situation is under control. We will take all measures to uphold peace and will not allow any politicians to disturb communal harmony for political benefit.” 

This is not without precedent. In a recent incident, Rane had visited Mira Road accompanied by a sizable crowd. Mid-Day’s report states that there were goons in this crowd that emerged to harass the people. Last week, Rane had posted a seemingly incendiary post on X, where part of his post had stated, “Chun chun ke marenge !!! Jai Shri Ram.”  

He has also recently given a speech which has spread across the internet. He can be reportedly seen saying that the government is ‘with’ them as long as ‘boss’ is in the ‘bunglow.’

“Do anything you want (trouble Muslims) and if police come your way, just call me for help, I’ll assure your safety. Police won’t do anything to me because our boss is sitting at ‘Sagar’ bunglow.  If any officers come your way don’t forget to give him or her a tight slap. You don’t need to worry about anything, we’re with you. The government is with you.”

पोलीस माझं काहीही वाकडं करु शकणार नाहीत. आपला बॅास बसलाय सागर बंगल्यावर ( गृहमंत्री देवेंद्र फडणवीस यांचं निवासस्थान ) काहीही होत नाही आपल्या लोकांना… नितेश राणेंचं पोलीसांसमोर वादग्रस्त वक्तव्य. #NiteshRane #MaharashtraPolitics pic.twitter.com/AR8SqWZFhc

— Abhijit Karande (@AbhijitKaran25) January 28, 2024

Sabrang India spoke to citizen on ground, Sadique Basha, who has stated that the situation on ground is normal now. Basha was also one of the organisers of a peace petition last week which reached over 2000 signatories. He has also shared that on January 29th there is going to a public session of reading the Preamble as a means of bringing back normalcy and harmony in the area. 

In other news, news of 19 people, including 4 minors, have been arrested by the authorities on charges related to rioting and the sharing of provocative content across social media platforms had arrived last week. These people were produced in Thane Court. A report by Siasat News stated that no Hindus have been arrested, leading to the conclusion that all those prosecuted remain to be Muslims. The Indian Express had earlier reported that the Mumbai police had accepted the complaint of the Muslim residents of Mira Road after great negotiation, however, no arrests so far have been made on the basis of that complaint. Furthermore, reports have emerged online that the arrested Muslim youth were allegedly beaten in custody and even denied food and treated cruelly. 

Sabrang India tried reaching out to authorities, however, they could not be reached despite several calls.  

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The post Mira Road: Muslim youth allegedly beaten in custody, denied food as Nitesh Rane tells supporters, “The Government is with you.” appeared first on SabrangIndia.