BJP leader Dilip Ghosh defended the alleged presence of weapons in religious processions during Ram Navami in West Bengal, stating that it was not a crime and was a means for the Hindu community to protect itself, reported India Today.
Amid Ram Navami festivities across India, security has been tightened across states. As per officials, the heightened security is in order to maintain a peaceful celebration and to prevent any untoward incident.
BJP leader Dilip Ghosh defended the alleged presence of weapons in religious processions during Ram Navami in West Bengal, stating that it was not a crime and was a means for the Hindu community to protect itself, reported India Today.
During an event in Kharagpur, Ghosh stated that it was the Hindu community's right to defend itself, emphasizing that the display of weapons was merely a symbolic act.
He further accused that temples had been desecrated, idols stolen, and pandals set ablaze in West Bengal as part of an effort to target Hindus. He questioned, “In such circumstances, if Hindus take steps to protect themselves, how is that a crime? What offense is there in carrying a weapon?”
Ghosh's remarks followed reports that rallies for Ram Navami across various districts in the state had involved open displays of weapons.
Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Dola Sen reacted to Ghosh's remarks and said, “I have never seen such heavy police presence for Ram Navami before, but now the police are required to be vigilant."
Speaking on Ram Navami celebrations in West Bengal, Dilip Ghosh also said, “Ram Navami will be celebrated in a grand way across West Bengal. It is the duty of the police to ensure the peaceful conduct of celebrations. The Hindu community celebrates the festival as per their traditions, there should not be any problem with this.”
In Malda, people reportedly brandished large swords during a procession from the Ramakrishna Palli Maidan despite prohibitory orders. In Howrah's Sankrail as well, people were armed during rallies without permission from police officials, which could invite legal action against them, reported India Today.
Tight Security
Amid Ram Navami festivities across India, security has been tightened across states. As per officials, the heightened security is in order to maintain a peaceful celebration and to prevent any untoward incident.
States such as Maharashtra, Jharkhand, West Bengal and many more have increased security for the Ram Navami festivities.
In Jharkhand, police personnel have been deployed in "sensitive" districts such as Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Giridih and Hazaribag.
Speaking to PTI, officials further added that CCTV cameras, drones and security personnel equipped with video cameras have been deployed at key locations.