SRINAGAR: Protests have erupted in Srinagar, summer capital of Illegally Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) as demonstrators demand the arrest of Prathamesh Shinde, a Hindutva supporter accused of making blasphemous remarks against the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The 20-year-old student from Maharashtra, enrolled at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Srinagar, posted derogatory content on social media, leading to widespread outrage.
Although the Jammu and Kashmir Police have filed charges against the student, the Indian authorities have yet to make an arrest. Instead, the accused has been sent into hiding, highlighting what protestors claim is a discriminatory approach by the Narendra Modi government toward minorities.
The FIR registered at Nigeen Police Station in Srinagar notes that the student’s actions have the potential to disrupt communal harmony and create a law and order situation.
Frustrated by the lack of action, students gathered outside the campus gate, demanding accountability for the accused. Critics argue that the Indian government’s protection of a Hindu accused of blasphemy contrasts with the arrest of Muslims for unrelated celebrations, reflecting a biased stance.
The incident is viewed as contributing to religious hatred and underscores the growing issue of Islamophobia in Indian society, with Hindutva supporters using it for political purposes.
Concerned voices on social media are calling on the United Nations, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and the international community to pressure the Modi government for decisive action against the Hindutva supporter.
