Pramesh S Jain
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP),Karnataka unit,has submitted a petition to the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner seeking the cancellation of an event organised in support of Umar Khalid.
In a letter dated April 27,BJP leaders expressed concern over an event being planned under the banner“Umar Khalid Prapancha,”which aims to show solidarity with Khalid,who is currently under arrest under anti-terror laws.
The party stated that while the Central Government has been taking stringent action against Naxal activities across the country,“urban Naxal elements”continue to operate and allegedly support anti-national activities.
The letter further noted that Khalid faces serious charges and has been denied bail for an extended period,which,according to the BJP,reflects the gravity of the allegations against him.
Calling the proposed event “shocking,”the party warned that glorifying such individuals could encourage criminal elements.It also raised concerns over the emergence of pro-Khalid slogans and wall writings in parts of Gandhinagar area in Bengaluru,suggesting the spread of such networks.
Citing potential law and order issues, the BJP urged the police to withdraw permission for the event in the interest of maintaining peace in the city.
The party also stated that it would not be responsible for any untoward incidents if the event is allowed to proceed.The police are yet to respond to the petition.
