Team Clarion
JAISALMER – Sadhvi Prachi, a controversial figure with a history of provocative statements, has once again attracted national attention. This time, she has called for a ban on Muslim participation in the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Her latest remarks have reignited debates surrounding religious intolerance, political manipulation, and the growing divide between communities in India.
Speaking to journalists here on Monday, Prachi claimed that Muslims, if allowed entry to the Kumbh Mela, could engage in “spit jihad and urine jihad” that would “corrupt” Hindu religious practices. She further alleged that Muslim participation in the sacred event would disturb the penance of saints and harm the sanctity of the Ganges, invoking divisive rhetoric that paints Muslims as a threat to Hinduism. “Saints come to the Kumbh Mela to perform penance, but Muslims may use this holy occasion to destroy our sacred traditions,” Prachi remarked, demanding a ban on their entry.
Her inflammatory words were not limited to the Kumbh Mela alone. Prachi also stirred controversy by defending notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, calling him an “innocent child” in a context that appeared to indirectly criticise Bollywood actor Salman Khan. This statement only added to her controversial reputation, particularly following her earlier remarks that have sparked communal tensions.
Sadhvi Prachi is infamous for making inflammatory remarks. Known for her association with right-wing Hindu groups, she gained attention during the 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots, where her participation in the Jat Mahapanchayat and subsequent remarks were linked to the deadly violence between communities. Prachi’s speech at the Mahapanchayat, which preceded the clashes, was seen as a call for action against the Muslim community, resulting in a case being filed against her for instigating violence.
Her statements in 2015, where she urged Hindu women to have at least four children, were also met with widespread criticism. Despite her inflammatory rhetoric, Prachi has remained a figurehead of hardline Hindu ideology, receiving support from some quarters while continuing to alienate others.
Sadhvi Prachi’s latest statements come at a time when religious polarisation in the country seems to be at an all-time high. Her call to exclude Muslims from a religious event like the Kumbh Mela is being seen by many as an attempt to deepen the divide between the Hindu majority and the Muslim minority. Such remarks can fuel hatred, increase discrimination, and damage the social fabric that has held together India’s pluralistic society for centuries.
This story was originally published in clarionindia.net. Read the full story here.