Uttarakhand Police File FIR Against Lal Baba Over Alleged Hate Speech at RSS Event
In a significant development, the Uttarakhand police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Mahamandaleshwar Lal Baba, also known as Mohan Bhatt of Chitragupt Peeth in Jageshwar. The legal action stems from an inflammatory speech he allegedly delivered during the Virat Hindu Sammelan, which was organized at the Simkani Ground in Almora on Sunday. This event was held to commemorate the centenary year of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), drawing widespread attention and controversy.
Details of the Alleged Inflammatory Remarks
A video of Lal Baba's speech, which has been widely circulated on social media platforms, purportedly shows him issuing a warning to a particular community to leave Uttarakhand. In the footage, he is heard stating that if he were compelled to take out a rally, action would be taken wherever members of that community were found. Furthermore, Lal Baba challenged the police and administration, asserting that he was unconcerned about how many legal sections were invoked against him, indicating a defiant stance towards authorities.
Legal Action and Police Investigation
The FIR was lodged under BNS Section 196(1) and other relevant provisions following a written complaint by event convenor Manoj Sanwal. Sanwal alleged that certain remarks made by Lal Baba during his address were highly objectionable and crossed legal boundaries. Almora Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Chandrashekhar Ghodke confirmed the registration of the case and emphasized that legal action would proceed based on the findings of a thorough probe. The police are currently investigating the matter to ascertain the full context and implications of the speech.
Political Reactions and Condemnations
The issue has triggered strong political reactions from various quarters. MP and Union Minister of State Ajay Tamta, who was in attendance at the gathering along with leaders and workers associated with the BJP and RSS, stated that such statements could not be justified under any circumstances. He highlighted the need for maintaining communal harmony and respect for all communities.
Senior Congress leader Harish Aithani condemned the remarks, asserting that they spread hatred and disturb communal harmony in the region. Similarly, P C Tiwari, the central president of the Uttarakhand Parivartan Party, termed the statements "indecorous" and demanded immediate arrest and strict action against Lal Baba. These reactions underscore the bipartisan concern over the potential impact of such inflammatory rhetoric on social cohesion.
Event Background and Attendees
The Virat Hindu Sammelan saw several speakers from different fields invited to address the gathering, making it a notable event in the region. The presence of prominent political figures like Ajay Tamta added to its significance, but the controversy surrounding Lal Baba's speech has overshadowed other aspects. Authorities are now focused on ensuring that the legal process is followed diligently to address the allegations and prevent any escalation of tensions.
