BJP leader booked for blasphemous remarks against Islamic beliefs
Mumbai: A BJP leader and social media influencer in the Maharashtra state of India has been booked for making blasphemous and derogatory remarks against Islamic beliefs, triggering widespread outrage among Muslims and prompting legal action in different parts of India.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the first FIR was registered at Shanti Nagar Police Station in Bhiwandi following a complaint filed by local resident Adnan Ansari. The complainant stated that he came across an Instagram podcast reel in which the BJP leader made offensive remarks concerning Islamic beliefs during a conversation with a podcast host.
Senior Inspector Vinayak Gaikwad confirmed that a case has been registered under provisions relating to deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings, along with relevant sections of the Information Technology Act. Authorities have initiated an investigation into the matter.
A second “zero FIR” was also registered at JJ Marg Police Station in Mumbai over the same social media content. Police officials said the case would be transferred to West Bengal for further investigation, while statements of concerned individuals are being recorded as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Meanwhile, representatives of the Raza Academy approached Pydhonie Police Station and submitted a written complaint seeking strict legal action against the accused, maintaining that the remarks were deeply offensive and hurt the religious sentiments of Muslims.
The accused has been identified as Nazia Elahi Khan, 41, a BJP Minority Morcha leader who is also known on social media as “Nazia Sanatani”. Khan joined the BJP in 2018 and has previously been associated with several political and legal controversies. Police officials said both FIRs stem from the same video content and that further legal proceedings are underway.
Observers noted that the incident has once again raised concerns about the growing prevalence of anti-Muslim rhetoric and Islamophobic discourse in India under the patronage of Hindutva-linked political elements, which continues to undermine religious harmony and minority rights.
