The Karnataka police have registered an FIR against SDPI leader Abdul Ghaffoor Kurahatti following allegations from Hindu organizations that SDPI activists displayed a “derogatory placard” after Eid prayers in Hubbali, Karnataka. The placard in question reportedly stated, “The Sangh Parivar is insignificant to the Muslims who waged war against the British,” which has led to accusations of hurting Hindu sentiments and inciting communal disharmony.
The complaint was filed by members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Bajrang Dal, and the Hindu Lawyers’ Association at the Hubballi Suburban Police Station. In their complaint, the Hindu groups accused the SDPI of provocative actions and promoting enmity on religious grounds.
Following protests outside the police station, the authorities took action, registering the FIR against Kurahatti. The charges under the FIR include promoting enmity on religious grounds, assault or criminal force to deter a public servant from duty, and obstruction of lawful authority.
Hindu groups have also escalated their demand for a ban on the SDPI, citing repeated instances of what they describe as provocative activities.
In a separate incident, during Eid prayers at the Eidgah Maidan on Keladi Road in Hubbali, SDPI members staged a demonstration. The protestors carried placards calling for an immediate end to Israel’s attacks on Palestine and Gaza, the release of an SDPI central leader arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), and opposing the central government’s proposed amendments to Waqf regulations.
This story was originally published in theobserverpost.com.