Sun Nov 03 03:47:07 UTC 2024: ## INDIA Bloc Accuses Assam CM of Hate Speech, Files Complaint Ahead of Jharkhand Polls

**Ranchi, November 2nd, 2024:** The INDIA alliance, a coalition of opposition parties, has filed a formal complaint with the Jharkhand Chief Electoral Officer, accusing Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of delivering hate speech during a recent rally in the state. The complaint, which seeks action against Mr. Sarma, alleges that his remarks targeted Muslims and aimed to create communal tension ahead of the upcoming Jharkhand Assembly elections.

In the letter to the poll panel, the INDIA bloc cited specific instances from Mr. Sarma’s speech, including statements like, “They will vote for the same person, but Hindus will not vote together” and “This government calls infiltrators because a particular community votes for it.” They argue that these remarks, delivered in a divisive and hateful tone, are aimed at inciting violence and creating a “civil war-like situation” in the state.

The complaint further accused Mr. Sarma of promoting divisive politics and exploiting existing social divisions for political gain. They expressed concern about the potential for extremist ideologies and hate crimes stemming from such inflammatory rhetoric.

Mr. Sarma, who is also the BJP’s co-in-charge for Jharkhand, has dismissed the allegations, stating that speaking about Hindus does not equate to targeting Muslims. He argued that his comments about “infiltrators” were justified and questioned the opposition’s sensitivity to his remarks.

The controversy arises as Jharkhand gears up for Assembly elections on November 13th and 20th. The ruling alliance of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Congress, and Rashtriya Janata Dal is facing a challenge from the BJP, All Jharkhand Students’ Union, JDU, and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas). The opposition’s complaint adds a layer of complexity to the already heated campaign.

Read More