BJP MLA Eshwarappa sparks controversy by making remarks against Azaan

Mangaluru: BJP MLA and former minister K.S. Eshwarappa has sparked controversy by commenting on the use of loudspeakers for Azaan.

KS Eshwarappa made the remarks during the Vijaya Sankalpa Yatra in Kavoor. 

As the sound of azaan was heard while he was delivering his speech, Eshwarappa stated that the use of loudspeakers for 'azaan' is a headache wherever he goes. He referred to a Supreme Court judgment on the use of loudspeakers.

"This will end sooner or later. Does Allah listen only if mike is used," he questioned. 

Addressing the media in Mangaluru on Monday, Eshwarappa defended his statement, saying he was expressing the feelings of the common man who faces inconvenience due to the use of loudspeakers for 'azaan.' He also reiterated the Supreme Court judgment against the use of loudspeakers.

However, the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) has strongly condemned Eshwarappa's statement, accusing him of deliberately insulting 'azaan' and Allah during a mosque's call to prayer. 

SDPI general secretary Anwar Sadat Bajathur stated that Eshwarappa's statement was an attempt to spread communal hatred and incite riots in the region.

Bajathur accused Eshwarappa of trying to gain political mileage by criticizing Muslims and persuading Sangh Parivar leaders to win a ticket for the next assembly elections.

Bajathur further demanded that the police department immediately register a case and take strict legal action against Eshwarappa failing which the SDPI would take legal action against him.