Police diktat on public awareness programmes raises hackles of Hindu groups

BENGALURU: Ahead of the Assembly elections in the state, the police department has imposed strictures on conducting public programmes in temple premises and is taking written statements from leaders of Hindu organisations that they will not make provocative statements. However, this move has sparked outrage.

A Hindu organisation recently conducted a programme at the Srikanteshwara Temple near Chennammanakere Acchhukattu. But the police imposed restrictions and took statements from leaders of organisation saying that they will not make any statements that will threaten other communities and that no untoward incident occurs.

Hindu groups have held 214 public awareness meetings and the members claimed that there were no restrictions so far. But, ahead of the elections, the police have started imposing restrictions, they pointed out and said this exposes the duality of political parties when it comes to religious awareness.

“The police have asked us not to talk about other religions, love jihad, or any other such issues. They have asked us to get permission before conducting any programmes. But permission is only necessary for outdoor programmes and to make public announcements. We are disappointed with the development,” said Suresh, president of Hindu Janajagruthi Samithi.