Tensions are escalating in Telangana following a clash between Hindu activists and the police. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), along with the Bajrang Dal and other Hindu organizations, has issued a strong ultimatum to the state government, demanding action within 48 hours. Their grievance stems from the police’s response to a protest held in Secunderabad on October 14th, following the desecration of a temple idol.
The VHP’s state chief spokesperson, Bala Swamy, has accused the Telangana government of targeting Hindus. He criticized the lack of immediate action taken against Salman Salim Thakur, the accused vandal, who allegedly desecrated the Shri Muthyalamma Devi temple idol. Swamy also expressed disappointment in the Telangana police’s handling of the situation, stating that they failed to promptly arrest those responsible for the incident.
The protest, which saw the participation of several Hindu outfits, turned volatile when police resorted to a lathi charge. Protesters, many of whom were carrying saffron flags and chanting slogans like “Jai Shri Ram” and “We want justice,” responded by throwing water packets at the police. The incident resulted in injuries to both protesters and police officers.
The VHP’s ultimatum demands the immediate suspension of the police officers involved in the lathi charge. They argue that the police’s actions were excessive and unjustified, especially considering the nature of the peaceful protest.
The incident has also drawn the attention of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Union Minister of State for Home, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, condemned the lathi charge, arguing that the government is prioritizing targeting protesters instead of bringing the accused vandal to justice. He termed the police’s actions as “high-handed behavior” and expressed solidarity with the Hindu groups protesting at the Mutyalamma temple.
The situation remains tense as the 48-hour deadline set by the VHP approaches. The Telangana government is under pressure to respond to the VHP’s demands and address the concerns raised by various Hindu organizations. The incident has ignited a debate on the issue of religious tolerance and the appropriate response to incidents of vandalism and desecration of religious sites.