Inciting Bhajan vs Azan? BJP MP Tejasvi Surya detained over breach of MCC

Bengaluru: A protest erupted in Karnataka's capital city following an altercation between a shopkeeper and a group of individuals over the playing of the 'Hanuman Chalisa' during 'Azaan' time. Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya participated in the protest and was subsequently detained.

What happened?

The incident, which occurred in the Siddanna Layout area, saw a shopkeeper allegedly assaulted by a group for playing the Hindu devotional bhajan loudly during the 'Azaan'. The assault sparked public outrage, prompting demonstrations in the area, with protestors brandishing saffron flags and chanting "Jai Shree Ram".

#WATCH | Karnataka: People protested in Bengaluru this morning following an altercation between a group of people and a shopkeeper during 'Azaan' time on Sunday.

The altercation occurred on 17th March when a shopkeeper played devotional songs near Siddanna Layout. pic.twitter.com/qtdjQwOmbf

— ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2024

Arrests were made by Bengaluru police

The Bengaluru police have arrested three individuals in connection with the assault on the shopkeeper. The incident has raised concerns about religious tensions and law enforcement in the state.

Leaders respond to the incident

The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the incident, blaming the ruling Congress government for what they termed as appeasement politics. BJP leader R Ashoka accused the Congress of failing to uphold law and order.

Tejasvi Surya

BJP MP Tejasvi Surya condemned the incident, asserting that Hindus were being marginalized in Karnataka under the Congress regime. He highlighted the victim's ordeal, emphasizing the need for a fair investigation into the matter.

Tejasvi Surya urged the Bengaluru Police to expedite the arrests and conduct an impartial probe into the incident. He stressed the importance of recording a comprehensive statement from the victim, ensuring justice prevails.

The altercation over the playing of religious chants underscores the delicate communal fabric in Bengaluru. As tensions escalate, political parties and law enforcement agencies are under scrutiny to address the underlying issues and ensure the safety and harmony of all citizens.