Giriraj Singh, BJP Candidate From Begusarai Lok Sabha Seat, Gets Election Commission's Notice For Anti-Muslim Remarks
Giriraj Singh had made a veiled attack on Muslims at an election rally, saying those who need three-arm's-length of land for burial don't chant 'Vande Mataram'.
New Delhi, April 29: The Election Commission (EC) on Monday issued a notice to Union Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Giriraj Singh for his anti-Muslim remarks. Giriraj Singh, who is contesting the Lok Sabha polls from Begusarai in Bihar against CPI candidate Kanhaiya Kumar, had made a veiled attack on Muslims at an election rally, saying those who need three-arm's-length of land for burial don't chant 'Vande Mataram'.
"I would like to say, Giriraj Singh’s ancestors died and were cremated. You need a yard of land even after you die, for burial of your mortal remains. If you say you cannot chant Vande Mataram, this nation will never forget you," Singh was quoted as saying. "...In Begusarai too, many can be seen spewing venom wearing bade bhai ka kurta and chhote bhai ka pyjama," he said referring to the long shirts and short trousers that are usually associated with devout Muslims. Giriraj Singh Booked for Poll Code Violation over His Controversial 'green Flags' Remarks.
BJP national president Amit Shah was also present when Singh made the controversial remarks. An FIR had been registered against Singh for violating model code of conduct by making controversial remarks against the Muslim community. According to District Magistrate, Begusarai, Rahul Kumar, the FIR was lodged at Town police station under relevant sections of the Representation of People Act and the Indian Penal Code.
Singh is known for making controversial statements on account of his hyper-nationalistic outbursts which also underscore his Hindutva hardline. His comment ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls that those opposed to Narendra Modi deserved to be deported to Pakistan has led to much lampooning. Recently, he had said that political parties in the country should be prohibited from having flags which were green in colour since these resembled the emblem of Pakistan.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 29, 2019 06:32 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).