Saharanpur: Hindutva leader Sadhvi Prachi’s remarks at a religious convention in Saharanpur have drawn strong criticism from the Muslim community and civil rights activists, who said her statements fuel fear and challenge the equal status of Muslims in India.
Speaking at Shri Vishnu Mandir in Madhu Nagar during the RSS centenary celebrations, Sadhvi Prachi told the audience, “Whoever feels unsafe in India should go to Pakistan.” The comment, applauded by some attendees, was widely condemned by Muslim leaders and social groups as exclusionary and hostile.
She linked nationhood with religion and population concerns, stating that the Hindu population was declining and urging Hindus to protect the country together. She also criticized population slogans associated with other communities, and claimed that India has always been a Hindu nation.
Muslim leaders rejected the statements. AIMIM state president Shaukat Ali said the remarks were dangerous and unconstitutional, noting that Indian Muslims are native citizens. Local residents said such statements create anxiety. Shopkeeper Imran Khan said, “We have lived peacefully for decades. Comments like these make us feel targeted.”
Legal experts emphasized constitutional protections. Advocate Farah Naqvi said citizenship in India is not linked to religion, and telling citizens to leave contradicts equal rights. Social activists warned that polarising speeches undermine social harmony and trust.
Opposition leaders highlighted the need to focus on education, jobs, and public safety. Local Muslim organisations reiterated their commitment to peaceful coexistence and constitutional values. Many Saharanpur residents called for responsible public discourse that respects the dignity of all citizens.
