Congress MLA Babu Jandel has found himself at the centre of a major controversy after being booked for allegedly making derogatory remarks against Bhagwan Shiva, causing widespread outrage among Hindu groups. A video, in which Jandel is reportedly seen using abusive language towards the revered deity, went viral online, leading to protests from Hindu advocacy groups, including the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP).
The viral video, which has sparked a wave of anger, shows Jandel allegedly making inflammatory comments that many Hindus found deeply offensive. In response, several Hindu organisations have accused the Congress leader of deliberately hurting religious sentiments. The VHP, known for its strong stance on protecting Hindu values and beliefs, was quick to organise protests demanding action against Jandel. The incident comes at a sensitive time for the Congress party, which has been accused of questioning Hindu beliefs in the past.
Anil Naidu, a lawyer and convener of the VHP’s legal cell for Malwa Prant (Indore-Ujjain division), filed a formal complaint against Jandel. Following this, the police registered a First Information Report (FIR) under sections 299 and 302 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). These sections pertain to “deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings” and “intentionally hurting religious sentiments.”
In his defence, MLA Jandel has refuted the allegations, claiming that the video in question was edited to tarnish his reputation. He asserted his deep devotion to Bhagwan Shiva, stating, “I am a Shiv Bhakt. This is an attempt to defame me by circulating an edited video.” Despite his defence, the outrage from religious groups shows no sign of abating, with many calling for stricter action against leaders who make controversial remarks about Hindu gods.
This is not the first time the Congress party has come under fire for comments made by its leaders that have offended Hindu sentiments. Earlier this year, senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi stirred controversy by stating that he was “fighting against Shakti,” a concept central to Hinduism. This statement drew criticism from many quarters, particularly as it came shortly after Gandhi was seen engaging with Catholic priest George Ponnaiah, who had denigrated the revered Hindu deity ‘Shakti,’ referring to it as “not the real God.”
The Congress party, which has often been accused of sidelining Hindu beliefs in its pursuit of secularism, is facing renewed scrutiny in the wake of these incidents. Jandel’s remarks and the subsequent legal action against him are likely to further strain the party’s relationship with a significant portion of the Hindu electorate.
