Who is 'Chhota Yeti' arrested in Narsinghanand provocative speech case?

Chhota Yeti arrested in provocative speech case: Anil Yadav, a close disciple of the controversial Mahant Yeti Narsinghanand, has been arrested by Uttar Pradesh Police in connection with a provocative speech case. Known as "Chhota Yeti," Yadav is accused of making inflammatory remarks that aimed to disturb social harmony. Yadav serves as a priest at the Dasna temple in Ghaziabad, where Narsinghanand holds the position of chief priest.

Arrest of Anil Yadav in hate speech case

Anil Yadav's arrest comes after his alleged involvement in giving hate speeches against Muslims. He has been accused of trying to incite communal discord with his remarks. Following his arrest, he was sent to Ghaziabad jail. The charges against him stem from an event held on September 29, where Yeti Narsinghanand made derogatory comments about Prophet Mohammad and the Quran at Hindi Bhavan in Ghaziabad. The video of Narsinghanand’s remarks quickly spread across social media, sparking protests in various parts of the country, including Bulandshahr, Ghaziabad, and Amravati in Maharashtra.

FIR filed and police investigation underway

After widespread public outrage, an FIR was registered on October 4 against four individuals, including Anil Yadav. The charges against them include disturbing social harmony through inflammatory speeches. According to The Indian Express, apart from Yadav, those named in the FIR include Ran Signanand, Ram Swarupanand, and Nirbhayanand. They have been charged under sections 302 (intentionally hurting religious sentiments) and 351(2) (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code.

Anil Yadav’s surrender and arrest

According to a report by Arvind Ojha from India Today, Anil Yadav initially surrendered in court on October 10 and was granted bail. However, criticism against the police's handling of the case escalated, leading to his rearrest later that night on charges of disturbing peace.

Hindu panchayat and further protests

Following Yadav’s arrest, Hindu organizations have rallied in areas around the Dasna temple, planning a 'panchayat' to protest the arrest. This panchayat is part of the preparations for a larger 'Hindu Mahapanchayat' scheduled to take place on October 13. Meanwhile, the UP Police has arrested 15 individuals who protested in Meerut against the controversial remarks made by Narsinghanand. According to PTI, a case has been registered against 180 people for inciting religious sentiments and holding an illegal rally.