BJP MLA and Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane on September 22, supported the Vishva Hindu Parishad’s advisory urging Garba organisers to conduct strict identity checks of participants. The VHP had earlier issued a call for vigilance during Navratri celebrations, citing concerns about “love jihad.”
“What is wrong with it? As per my information, Islam does not follow idol worship. Except for love jihad, I do not see any other reason behind Muslims participating in Garba,” Rane told reporters in Mumbai.
He added, “They come to such events under false identity and harass our women. Cases of love jihad start from there.”
Rane further escalated his remarks by calling Garba events “epicentres of love jihad.” He alleged that the intention behind Muslim participation in Navratri festivities was to lure Hindu women and push them towards conversion.
“The VHP’s demand is justified. If someone still comes to Garba, convert him as he is ready (by attending such events) to become Hindu,” Rane said.
He added that Hindu organisations would be asked to prepare for the “conversion procedure,” stating, “After all, at one time in the past, we all were Hindus.”
Garba is an integral part of Navratri festivities. This year, the nine-day festival began on September 22. Organisers across states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh see massive participation, making it one of the largest annual cultural gatherings.
The VHP has in recent years raised concerns about alleged infiltration of these events by men concealing their religious identity to target women. Rane’s remarks have added political weight to the call for stricter checks.
Apart from his remarks on Garba, Rane also targeted Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, who had criticised the Modi government for not responding strongly to offensive gestures made by Pakistani cricketers during an Asia Cup match in Dubai.
Referring to Pakistan’s opening batter Sahibzada Farhan’s gun-firing celebration after completing a half-century, Rane said opposition leaders were quick to question India’s stance but ignored the repeated provocations from Pakistan’s side.
Rane’s remarks come amid heightened scrutiny over festival gatherings and their use by drug syndicates and predatory groups, with police forces across states issuing advisories for increased vigilance during Navratri.
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