Controversy Erupts Over Non-Hindus Entry into Garba Pavilions Amid Navratri Celebrations
Tensions rise as Bajrang Dal warns against non-Hindus entering Garba pavilions during Navratri, following a love jihad controversy.
New Delhi, October 14 (Daily Kiran) : As Navratri festivities unfold across India, a fresh wave of controversy has emerged regarding the entry of non-Hindus into Garba events. The situation escalated following a reported love jihad incident in Nalasopara, Maharashtra, prompting BJP leader Kirit Somaiya to label it a significant racket and call for strict action.
In Madhya Pradesh‘s Satna and Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi, the Bajrang Dal has initiated an identity verification campaign at Garba pavilions, warning against the entry of non-Hindus. They have put up posters urging organizers to check identification before allowing participants inside.
Somaiya described the love jihad case as serious, revealing that an FIR has been filed and a new minor victim has come to light. Reports indicate that over 100 girls have been targeted in this alleged scheme, where they were reportedly lured into physical relationships, with videos recorded as evidence. He has urged the Chief Minister to take stringent measures in response.
A Bajrang Dal member in Satna stated that their actions are a precautionary measure in light of ongoing activities in the country. They emphasized the need to verify identities to prevent those opposed to the religion from entering. “If these individuals do not believe in idol worship, what is their need to attend? We do not participate in their events,” he remarked.
The group has made it clear that if any non-Hindu is spotted at a Garba event, they will take action, holding the organizers accountable. In Varanasi, similar posters have been displayed, urging non-Sanatani individuals to keep their distance from the festivities. Bajrang Dal activists reiterated that Navratri is a time for worship and remembrance of the divine, and they have observed inappropriate behavior from non-Sanatani attendees in past events.
They warned that any non-Sanatani found at these gatherings would face repercussions, stating, “We work for service, values, and security. I want to caution both Garba and Dandiya organizers and non-Sanatani individuals to stay away from these events.”
Tensions surrounding the celebrations are likely to continue as the festival progresses.
