Mumbai: A petition has been submitted to the Bombay High Court, calling for registration of an FIR against Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and BJP MLA Nitesh Rane. The plea, filed by Advocate Mohammed Wasi Sayed, accuses both politicians of making Islamophobic comments that have offended the religious sentiments of the Muslim community, reports the Vartha Bharati.
The controversy stems from a video featuring Mahant Ramgiri Maharaj, who allegedly made derogatory statements about Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. In the video, Shinde is seen supporting Maharaj and cautioning police against taking action against him while he is in office. Sayed contends that this undermines ongoing investigations into the Mahant’s remarks.
The petition highlights Rane’s inflammatory statement, which included threats against those who oppose Maharaj. Rane reportedly stated, “If anybody says anything against Ramgiri Maharaj, we will enter your mosque and hit you one by one.” He also made derogatory references to Muslims.
Sayed argues that these comments reflect a broader trend of rising Islamophobia in India, particularly with the upcoming State Assembly elections. He claims such rhetoric is designed to polarize voters and divert attention from pressing societal issues.
The petition also raises concerns over the increase in online hate speech targeting Muslims, noting a significant rise in Islamophobic posts on social media platforms. Sayed pointed out that much of this content remains unchecked, especially in regional languages, which complicates monitoring efforts.
The advocate is seeking action under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita and the Information Technology Act against Shinde and Rane, as well as a directive to halt live broadcasts of Rane’s speeches targeting the Muslim community. The Bombay High Court is expected to hear the petition shortly.
