PRAYAGRAJ — Hindutva proponent Yeti Narsinghanand has again targeted the Muslim community with inflammatory remarks, claiming that “Muslims are giving birth like pigs.” The Hindu priest’s vitriolic comments made last week (23 January) during a meeting here on the Shahi Eidgah Masjid-Krishna Janmabhoomi issue in Mathura, have drawn widespread condemnation for inciting communal disharmony.
Narsinghanand further labelled Islam as “the biggest threat to India and the world,” attempting to stoke fears over the perceived growth in the country’s Muslim population. The event also witnessed the chanting of provocative slogans, raising concerns about communal harmony in the region.
The incident has triggered strong reactions from human rights organisations and political leaders. Many have accused Narsinghanand of promoting hatred against the minority community. A local activist, Mohammed Faizan, stated, “Such vile remarks not only hurt the sentiments of Muslims but also undermine the spirit of unity and diversity that India stands for.”
This is not the first time Hindu religious leaders have been accused of making incendiary statements targeting minorities. Critics argue that the lack of administrative action against such rhetoric emboldens individuals to continue spreading hatred. Political commentator Arif Hussain noted, “The silence of the authorities is worrying. Such unchecked hate speech threatens the peaceful fabric of our country.”
Several activists have called for swift action against Narsinghanand, urging the government to uphold justice and ensure communal harmony. The incident underscores the urgent need for stricter laws and enforcement against hate speech in India.
Human rights activists have also highlighted the long-term impact of such statements on social cohesion. “When religious leaders spew hatred, it fans the flames of intolerance and division,” said Anam Shaikh, a social activist. “India’s strength lies in its unity, and that unity must be protected at all costs.”
As the controversy unfolds, calls for accountability grow louder, with demands for the government to step in and take decisive action to prevent further polarisation in society.
This story was originally published in clarionindia.net.