In Telangana, a recent incident involving Congress MLAs sharing objectionable images during Bakrid celebrations has sparked significant controversy and outrage among the Hindu community. The incident highlights the sensitive nature of religious sentiments and the potential consequences of perceived disrespect.
On the occasion of Bakrid, Congress MLA Kumbam Anil Kumar Reddy shared festive greetings through a social media post. However, the design of the poster he shared depicted the sacred cow, a revered symbol in Hindus, in a manner that was perceived as disrespectful and offensive by many Hindus.
Reacting to this BJP MLA Rajsingh stated on X “Congress has once again hurt Hindu sentiments, despite knowing that cow slaughter is banned.”
Congress MLA from Telangana has shared a highly offensive Bakra Eid poster depicting 'Gaumata'.
Congress has once again hurt Hindu sentiments, despite knowing that cow slaughter is banned. pic.twitter.com/A9CN2onjEJ
— Raja Singh (@TigerRajaSingh) June 17, 2024
The image quickly drew widespread condemnation and outrage from the Hindu community and various social and political groups. Many individuals took to social media to express their anger and disappointment, calling the image a deliberate attempt to insult and provoke Hindu sentiments. The backlash was swift and intense, with calls for accountability and respect for religious symbols.
When Ms across the world slaughter goats for #Bakrid , what causes the Ms of India to kill cows ? If this is not provocation , what is ?
Shouldn't "suo motu" proceedings must be taken on anyone talking in favour of cow slaughter ?— arise bharat (@arisebharat) June 17, 2024
In response to the mounting criticism, MLA Kumbam Anil Kumar Reddy released a video statement expressing regret for the image. In his statement, he acknowledged the offensive nature of the poster and apologized for any hurt caused to the Hindu community. He emphasized that the intent was not to disrespect any religion or its symbols.
This was posted to trigger hindu faith by Telangana MLA he then says picture placed by mistake and he is a Ram bhakt. What action has been taken against his SM team? pic.twitter.com/Wu755nPIsx
— SanghiDentico🇮🇳,🚩🚩🕉️ (@priyathedentico) June 17, 2024
Following the apology, the MLA’s team took immediate steps to alter the greeting message. The revised poster was shared on social media, omitting the offensive depiction and aiming to convey a respectful message. Despite these corrective measures, the incident has left a lasting impact on public sentiment.
Similarly, Congress MLA Uttam Padmavati, wife of Uttam Kumar Reddy, Minister for Irrigation, Food & Civil Supplies in Telangana Govt posted on Facebook supporting and endorsing cow slaughter.
https://twitter.com/SumiranKV/status/1802653535772786770.
In response to this objectionable content, Dr Shashidar, joint secretary of Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Telangana, speaking to Oganiser said “Despite Telangana High Court’s orders on the sanctity of Cows, the Congress MLA and its leader’s festive greetings are highly objectionable revealing their appeasement politics. This is a deliberate mockery of the beliefs of Hindus and it reflects a lack of empathy and a disregard for the values of respect and understanding. CM Revant Reddy should initiate Suo moto action against his party members whoever is involved in hurting the sentiments of Hindus.”
