VHP demands Hussain’s arrest
Sufi Imam Mehndi Hussain — who came into limelight during Narendra Modi’s Sadbhavana function in 2011, when he had offered the then Chief Minister, a skull cap — has created yet another controversy by saying that Garba is not a religious event, but it is entertainment for Rakshash (demons).
The Muslim religious leader’s statement came in the backdrop of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) announcement to restrict entry of Muslims in the Garba venues across the State. He also said that generally drunkard and rapists attends Garba functions during Navratri.
Denouncing Imam’s statement, fuming VHP leaders demanded to arrest Hussain with immediate effect under Prevention of Anti Social Activities’ Act (PASA). “The Imam required to be arrested by the police. If police will fail to do so, we will hand over him to cops,” said Ranchhod Bharvad, general secretary of VHP. “Even the Prime Minister of India observes fast during the nine days of Navaratri, does it mean, he is a demonIJ” asserted Bharvad.
Another VHP leader Mahant Akhileshwardas reiterated that the VHP would deploy its own Intelligence Bureau (IB) to restrict Muslims to enter in the Garba venues. Apart from private organisers, Gujarat Government-supported Vibrant Gujarat Navaratri Mahotsav has also been conducted and the VHP leaders have also warned the organisers to restrict Muslims to attend the event.
Reacting on the VHP’s anger, Imam was quoted as saying that dancing on film songs after consuming liquor would not be consider religious function as it indicate demon attitude.
Meanwhile, Imam went underground after couple of complaints lodged against him for his statements on Garba festivals. One police complaint filed at Thasara in North Gujarat and another was filed at Nadiad. VHP and Shiv Sena workers are in the process to file even a court case against him.
Earlier, a Godhra based rightwing group — Hindu Asmita Heet Rakshak Samiti — had demanded to block entry of Muslims at Garba venues and asked the organisers to follow its diktat. According to the group, Muslims implements their agenda of ‘love Jehad’ during revelries and try to seduce Hindu women.
Some of the Muslim leaders in the communally-sensitive Godhara town also appealed that the no community members should visit Garba venue as they are treated as ‘unwanted’. The announcement was made after a special prayer of Friday. There should no provocation from Muslims to disturb Navaratri festival, said Rafique Tijoriwala, a Godhra based Muslim leader Rafique Tijoriwala. Navaratri is commencing from Thursday September 25.