12 May 2024: In a contentious move, right-wing activist Akshay Rajput was forcefully deported from his hometown in Karnataka’s Dakshina Kannada district on April 24th, sparking allegations of discrimination by supporters who claim it’s part of a broader anti-Hindu policy enacted by the Congress government.
Rajput, affiliated with the Hindu Jagarane Vedike, was apprehended from his residence in Vitla Taluk by local authorities. The arrest came amidst a slew of allegations, including charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, such as criminal conspiracy and attempted murder.
Supporters argue that Rajput’s deportation is not an isolated incident but rather indicative of a systematic targeting of right-wing figures by the current administration. They point to a history of legal challenges, with Rajput citing multiple cases filed against him since 2019.
Adding to the controversy, the Karnataka High Court recently intervened by staying proceedings in Rajput’s case, hinting at potential legal complexities surrounding his deportation.
This incident parallels the recent legal scrutiny faced by Mahesh Vikram Hegde, founder of Postcard News, who stands accused of spreading fake news. Hegde’s case underscores the broader debate around misinformation and its political ramifications.
The Karnataka government, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has taken a firm stance against fake news, evidenced by the establishment of an Information Disorder Tackling Unit (IDTU) and significant budget allocation towards combating misinformation.
However, critics argue that such measures could be wielded as tools for political suppression, especially in light of recent allegations implicating BJP supporters and other right-wing activists in the dissemination of false information.
As the political landscape in Karnataka continues to simmer with tensions, Rajput’s deportation serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between upholding freedom of expression and combating misinformation in a polarized society.
