Take strict action against those responsible for communal hate: Mangaluru MLA

Mangaluru: Mangaluru MLA and Deputy Leader of Congress in Karnataka Assembly U T Khader has asked the government to take strict action against those responsible for communal hate.

“Since last 2-3 years we are seeing banners being put near temples that could create unrest (banners stating that non-Hindus should not be allowed to open stalls outside the temple premises during the annual festival). In recent days we have seen it happen in Udupi, Mangaluru, Shivamogga, and Nelamangala. The government should take strict action,” he said.

Khader took up this issue at the Karnataka assembly session on Wednesday.

“It is an open market and anybody can sell anywhere. There are many places of worship where people of all religions go, pray to God, and go shopping at the nearby stalls. But there are banners put up in public places that could divide the society and result in hate. These banners do not have the name of those who put them,” he said.

“The government should find the motive behind such banners and take strict action against them and thereby send a clear message to the society. The communal elements should be dealt with strictly,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Popular Front of India (PFI) has expressed concern over the recent development in the region.

“BJP-Sangh Parivar leaders are trying to ensure Muslim traders are not allowed to open stalls during temple festivals. Hindus and Muslims have been living in harmony in the region for centuries. But Sangh Parivar is showing intolerance towards Muslim traders and trying to sow the seed of communalism. This effort is part of polarization,” PFI district president Ijaz Ahmed alleged.