Karnataka: Congress Govt Not To Ban Bajrang Dal For Now, Vows Action Against Those Who Hamper Peace

Congress said that it mentioned the names of PFI and Bajrang Dal just as an example and that action will be taken if any organisation works against peace and harmony in the coming days.  

Congress government in Karnataka said it will not ban Bajrang Dal for now

Source : PTI File Photo

The Congress government in Karnataka will not impose a ban on right-wing outfit Bajrang Dal for now, sources told ABP News. In its poll manifesto in May this year, the party said it was committed to taking firm and decisive action against individuals and organisations spreading hatred amongst communities on grounds of caste and religion. The decision was met with criticism from the members of Bajrang Dal after which the party backtracked on its statement. 

In the manifesto, Congress said: "We believe that law and Constitution are sacrosanct and cannot be violated by individuals and organisations like Bajrang Dal, PFI or others promoting enmity or hatred, whether among majority or minority communities. We will take decisive action as per law including imposing a ban on such organisations".

However, the party on Thursday said that it mentioned the names of the Popular Front of India (PFI) and Bajrang Dal just as an example. 

“Action will be taken if any organisation works against peace and harmony in the coming days,” it added. 

The promise of banning Bajrang Dal was criticised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi also who came down heavily on Congress during a poll campaign at Hospet in Vijayanagara district.

“The Congress in its manifesto has decided to lock up Lord Hanuman. Initially, they locked up Prabhu Shri Ram (Lord Ram). And now they want to lock up people who say 'Jai Bajrang Bali' (Hail Hanuman),” the PM had said. 

To oppose the poll promise, Bajrang Dal had announced reciting of Hanuman Chalisa across the state which was supported by another right-wing outfit, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP). 

"This is the time when 'Dharma' is in danger and standing together is the only way forward. We should set aside our differences and come together to protect dharma, and hold hands together," the right-wing organisation had said in a statement.