Tamil Nadu: Hindu Munnani demands action against YouTube Channel ‘U2 Brutus’ for defaming Hindu religious practices

CHENNAI: The Hindu Munnani has called upon the DMK government to take immediate and stringent action against the YouTube channel ‘U2 Brutus’ for allegedly defaming Hindu religious practices, particularly regarding the sacred Tirupati Laddu preparation. The video posted by U2 Brutus has sparked significant controversy, with the channel claiming that animal fat was mixed with ghee used in preparing the Naivedya Prasadam for the Tirupati temple, a statement that has caused outrage among Venkatesa Perumal devotees worldwide.

In a strongly worded statement, Hindu Munnani State President Kadeshwara C. Subramaniam condemned the video, asserting that it had deeply hurt the sentiments of Hindus globally. He expressed dismay at the Tamil Nadu police’s lack of action, referencing a previous video by the same content creator that allegedly insulted the Chidambaram Thillai Nataraja. Subramaniam pointed out that while the police have taken swift action in cases involving other communities, there appears to be a reluctance to act against offenses targeting Hindu deities and traditions.

“The allegations in the U2 Brutus video have not only caused distress among devotees but have also raised concerns about the integrity of religious offerings at one of India’s most revered temples,” said Subramaniam. He warned that the inaction of the authorities could spark widespread protests, reminiscent of the massive rallies seen during the Jallikattu ban in Tamil Nadu and other religious issues, such as the Amarnath Yatra and Ayyappan temple controversies.

Hindu Munnani has called for the immediate arrest of the YouTuber responsible for the video under the Goondas Act, arguing that the repeated attacks on Hindu religious sentiments must be met with strict legal action. Subramaniam cautioned that failure to address the situation could lead to large-scale public protests, as many Hindus have already pledged to file complaints at their local police stations in response to the offensive video.

He added, “If the police continue to hesitate, the Hindu community will have no choice but to gather in large numbers and stage a democratic protest.” Subramaniam highlighted past instances where Hindus have rallied to protect their religious traditions, such as the protests against the insult to Lord Muruga’s Kanda Sashti Kavasam, noting that this incident could provoke a similar reaction if not handled appropriately.

In addition to Hindu Munnani’s demands, Tamil Nadu BJP Vice President Narayanani Thirupathi has also filed a formal complaint with the Director General of Police (DGP) in Tamil Nadu, urging action against another YouTube channel, ‘Parithabangal’. Thirupathi accused the channel of mocking the Tirupati Laddu issue and hunting religious sentiments, reinforcing the widespread backlash from the Hindu community.

As the controversy grew, Gopi, one of the creators of the U2 Brutus channel, took to Instagram to issue an apology. “The last video was made purely for comedy and was not intended to offend anyone. However, if it has hurt sentiments, we apologize and have deleted the video. We assure you that such content will not be repeated in the future,” Gopi wrote.

Despite the apology, the damage had already been done, with BJP functionary Amar Prasad Reddy filing a formal complaint with the Andhra Pradesh DGP, demanding an FIR be registered against the channel. Reddy accused U2 Brutus of creating enmity and outraging religious feelings, citing the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita to call for legal action.

Reddy’s complaint follows a pattern of growing frustration within the Hindu community, which feels targeted by derogatory comments, videos, and posts shared on social media by individuals aligned with the DMK and its allies. Critics argue that while the DMK government is quick to act on social media posts from BJP and Sangh Parivar members, it appears indifferent to the concerns raised by Hindus regarding insults to their religious beliefs.

As the backlash continues, Hindu Munnani has reiterated its demand for decisive action by the Tamil Nadu police to prevent further harm to Hindu religious sentiments. Failure to address the situation could result in a significant escalation of protests, with Hindu organizations across the state calling for the protection of their traditions and beliefs. The case has brought into sharp focus the need for authorities to treat all religious communities equally in matters of offense and justice.