BJP distances itself from hate speech; EC to seek details
New Delhi: The Election Commission has sought details and the video of controversial remarks in which Bihar BJP leader Giriraj Singh has allegedly said that “those opposing Modi will have to go to Pakistan after elections”.
Meanwhile, an FIR has been lodged against Singh in Deoghar, Jharkhand.
A red-faced BJP was on Sunday busy trying to do some fire-fighting following the embarrassment caused to it by Mr Singh’s remarks. Seeking to distance itself from the remarks of the party leader, who is contesting the Lok Sabha polls from Nawada in Bihar, the BJP indicated that it believes in inclusive politics.
Unfazed, Mr Singh tweeted late on Sunday evening, apparently seeking to explain his stand, “I maintain many Pakistani pro are constantly opposing NaMo. This nation belongs to Indian at heart else Pakistan always welcome anti India (sic),” he wrote, apparently giving a twist to his original statement.
Party president Rajnath Singh said, “The BJP believes in the politics of justice and humanity and taking everybody along.”Senior Bihar BJP leader Sushilkumar Modi termed the statement “irresponsible” and said that the party does not approve of it. “BJP doesn’t approve of the irresponsible statement given by Giriraj Singh,” he tweeted.
The Congress and the JD(U) have complained to the Election Commission, demanding criminal action against Mr Singh. Sources said that once the poll panel studies the entire text of the speech, action on the issue islikely as several parties have filed complaints against the alleged hate speech.
Meanwhile, refering to BJP leader Giriraj Singh’s remark about Modi opposers Ali Anwar, a Rajya Sabha member from Bihar’s ruling JD(U), said, “This serious, condemnable statement presages what the BJP would do if it comes to power in the name of opposing Pakistan. Opposition to India in Pakistan means opposing Hindus. The BJP is preparing a stage for hostilities towards Muslims in India in future.”
RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and Congress’s Bihar in-charge Satyavrat Chaturvedi condemned Mr Singh’s statement, terming it “highly divisive” and demanding action against Mr Singh.
BJP sources said that Mr Singh has been conveyed the party’s displeasure over his statement and asked to refrain from stoking any further row.
Party spokesperson Nirmala Sitharaman said the party distances itself from his statement and Mr Modi’s tweet reflects its view.
Sources in the party feared Mr Singh’s comments could affect its poll chances.
( Source : dc correspondent )
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