A petition was filed against Union minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh “Lalan” in Muzaffarpur for his remarks about Muslim voting patterns, alleging intent to offend. Activist Tamanna Hashmi argues the comments threaten communal harmony and violate constitutional equality. The court hearing is set for December 4, as Lalan faces potential trial under provocative speech regulations.
Muzaffarpur: A petition was filed on Wednesday before the Muzaffarpur Chief Judicial Magistrate’s court in Bihar against Union minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh “Lalan,” following his controversial remark regarding Muslim voting patterns. The comment alleged that Muslims were not voting for his party, the Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], despite the government’s inclusive efforts.
The petition, submitted by social activist Tamanna Hashmi, alleges that Lalan’s statement was made “with a deliberate intent to hurt the sentiments of Muslims.” Hashmi’s counsel, Suraj Kumar, confirmed that the court has set December 4 as the hearing date for the matter.
The petition urges the court to put Lalan on trial under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to provocative speech and hurting religious sentiments. Hashmi’s legal team emphasized the seriousness of the statement, which they argue undermines communal harmony and violates constitutional principles of equality and secularism.
Lalan, a former president of the JD(U), made the remarks during a party meeting in Muzaffarpur over the weekend. He pointed out that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, the supreme leader of the JD(U), worked tirelessly for all communities, including Muslims, regardless of whether it translated into votes for the party. He further noted that the Muslim community hesitated to support the JD(U), which had previously allied with the BJP.
Lalan’s statement has sparked widespread criticism, with activists like Hashmi claiming that it was divisive and intended to provoke. “We have urged the court that the Union minister be put on trial under sections related to provocative speech and hurt caused to religious sentiments,” Hashmi’s counsel stated.
The comment has drawn sharp reactions from various quarters, with critics arguing that such statements undermine the government’s claims of inclusivity. Opposition parties have also accused the JD(U) of trying to divert attention from pressing governance issues by playing identity politics.
As the legal proceedings begin, the court’s decision will determine whether Lalan will face trial under the BNS for his remarks. The December 4 hearing will be a pivotal moment in addressing the allegations of provocation and its implications on social harmony in Bihar.
This controversy highlights the fine line between political commentary and statements that risk inflaming communal tensions.
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