Hindutva leader’s violent speech in Ludhiana fuels fear among Muslims
Ludhiana: After the recent sword distribution incident in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, fresh threats against Muslims have now surfaced in Ludhiana in Punjab, increasing fear among the Muslim community and raising serious questions about the growing spread of hate speeches by leaders linked to Hindutva organisations.
According to Kashmir Media Service, a leader associated with a Hindutva group recently addressed a public meeting in Ludhiana and made violent and abusive remarks against Muslims. A video of the speech later went viral on social media, causing outrage and deep concern among Muslim groups.
During the speech, the Hindutva leader openly called for violence. He was heard saying, “When every Bajrang Dal leader comes out with weapons, we will crush the Mullahs.” The most alarming part of the Hindutva leader’s speech came when he spoke about religious practices. He announced plans to set up Hanuman Chalisa centres in villages and said these would be used to counter Muslim Friday prayers. He said from the stage, “If Hanuman Chalisa centres are built in every village, Hindus will be protected. This will stop the Friday activities.” The speaker went further and claimed, “Lakhs of people will recite Hanuman Chalisa, and this talk of Jihad and separatism on Fridays will be stopped.”
These remarks have created fear among Muslim families in the region. Muslim community members say such speeches are meant to openly encourage attacks on Muslims and spread panic and hatred. The use of such language has been widely condemned by civil society members.
Muslims say they are still waiting for police action. A community elder said, “Such speeches are clear calls for murder. If no action is taken, it sends a dangerous message.” Muslim organisations have demanded immediate action against those spreading hate. They say selective silence only adds to fear. A rights activist in Punjab said, “Open threats to kill Muslims and attacks on Friday prayers cannot be treated lightly.”
The Ludhiana incident comes soon after a disturbing event in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. On Monday, members of Hindu Raksha Dal openly displayed and distributed swords in the Shalimar Garden area. Stalls were set up where sharp weapons were handed out, and activists went door to door, asking people to keep weapons at home. They reportedly told residents to use them “for protection against Jihadis” and claimed that such people were roaming in India as well.
