Hindutva extremists attack book festival in Andhra Pradesh over Quran analysis
Amaravati: Weeks after the attack on the Hyderabad Book Fair, a similar incident occurred at the Tirupati Book Exhibition in Andhra Pradesh, where Hindutva religious extremists targeted the event.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the extremists stormed the Vishalandhra book stall, tearing copies of Quran Analysis, a book authored by Hindu writer Sharma, and setting them on fire while chanting “Jai Shri Ram.” The book explores similarities between Islamic and Hindu values, with the Quran serving as a reference point.
Eyewitnesses reported that the extremists also attempted to vandalize the stall, hurling accusations and using abusive language, causing significant disruption at the event.
Sakam Nagaraju, a visitor at the exhibition, recalled, “I heard loud noises and saw a group tearing and burning the book while shouting Hindutva slogans.” The mob also targeted other works at the stall, including Ramayana Visha Vriksham by Ranganayakamma and writings by Tamil reformer Periyar, falsely alleging that the books promoted immoral ideas.
Vaka Prasad, convener of the Tirupati Book Lovers United Forum, condemned the attack, stating that literature represents the freedom of thought beyond religious and regional divides. He called for the immediate arrest of those responsible, emphasizing that no group should have the authority to dictate what others can read.
This attack mirrors an earlier incident at the Hyderabad Book Fair on December 29, 2024, when Hindutva extremists targeted the Veekshanam bookstall.
