Taking up a suo motu case, the Gandhi Chowk police of Vijayapura have filed a case against Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, BJP MLA, for his anti-Muslim statements.
Speaking to The Hindu, Superintendent of Police Prakash Nikam said the case has been filed under section 153(A) 504, 505 subsection 2 of the Indian Penal Code for creating enmity between groups on religious and racial ground, intentionally insulting with intent on breach of peace, and creating fear among people.
It may be noted that Mr. Yatnal had made controversial remarks asking BJP corporators not to do any work for Muslims in their wards as the community had not voted for him. He also said that he did not want burka-clad women and scull cap-wearing men to come near him.
The statement created uproar as many people criticised his remarks, calling it anti-constitutional.
District unit of the Aam Aadmi Party has also taken exception to the statement and demanded the resignation of Mr. Yatnal. The party said such elected representatives are dangerous to society and democracy.
Meanwhile, several BJP corporators themselves have opposed his remarks. I strongly condemn such statement. In my case, people of call castes and communities have voted for me, therefore it is my responsibility to work for people of all castes and communities“I really don’t care what Mr. Yatnal has said, I will keep working for all communities in my ward,” said Anand Dhumale, a BJP corporator.
Sangeeta Pole, the Mayor and BJP Corporator said that what Mr. Yatnal has said is his personal view. She said that she will do the work of any person of any community who comes to seek her help as an elected representative.
Mr. Gopal Ghatkamble, another BJP Corporator also condemned the statement of Mr. Yatnal stating that he does not believe in playing communal politics. “Yatnal’s statement is completely wrong. I don’t endorse such anti-Constitutional statements. I am here to work for people of all castes and communities”, he said.