Protests Erupt in Hyderabad Over BJP MLA Raja Singh's Remarks Against Prophet Muhammad

Strategic Insights -

Tensions in Hyderabad remained high on Wednesday, with the city police closing down all petrol pumps in parts of the old city amidst continuing protests against suspended BJP MLA Raja Singh. Singh was suspended from the party on Tuesday for violating party rules after he released a video passing derogatory comments about Prophet Muhammad. The protests, which began on Monday night, intensified after Singh was released on bail, with participants demanding action against him. The Charminar, a historic monument, was kept open for visitors, but officials warned that it would be closed if major protests or skirmishes broke out.

Key Takeaways:

  • Protests against BJP MLA Raja Singh's remarks against Prophet Muhammad have continued in Hyderabad since Monday night, with the city police closing down all petrol pumps in parts of the old city.
  • Four people, including a police sub-inspector, were injured in skirmishes during the protests.
  • The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Goshamahal constituency, Raja Singh, was suspended from the party on Tuesday for violating party rules.
  • Singh released a video making derogatory comments about Prophet Muhammad, calling it "comedy."
  • Raja Singh was unwilling to let go of the fact that standup comic Munawar Faruqui was allowed to hold a show in the city last week.
  • The venue where Faruqui performed was turned into a fortress by the cops, who also put Raja Singh under house arrest to prevent him from disrupting the event.
  • BJP chief spokesperson for Telangana, Krishna Saagar Rao, stated that his party respects all religions and faiths and does not support hate speech.
  • The protests have been ongoing, with participants demanding action against Raja Singh.

Statistics:

  • Four people, including a police sub-inspector, were injured in skirmishes during the protests.
  • Over 100 people were reportedly thrashed when they tried to reach Goshamahal.
  • Large numbers of personnel from the Rapid Action Force, state police, and Armed Reserve have been posted to contain the situation.
  • Two vehicles were damaged during the protests.
  • The protests began on Monday night and have continued till Wednesday.

Sources:

  • Siasat.com
  • Siasat Daily