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This is an archive article published on March 30, 2023

Mumbai cops book suspended BJP leader in hate speech case

Singh was booked on Monday under Section 153-A (1) (a) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for allegedly making provocative comments that will promote or create enmity between two communities and disrupt religious harmony.

Mumbai cops book suspended BJP leader in hate speech caseT Raja Singh
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Suspended BJP MLA from Telangana T Raja Singh has been booked by the Dadar police nearly two months after he delivered an alleged hate speech at Hindu Sakal Samaj Morcha in Mumbai on January 29.

Singh was booked on Monday under Section 153-A (1) (a) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for allegedly making provocative comments that will promote or create enmity between two communities and disrupt religious harmony.

According to the FIR, the police received an application by a representative of the Sakal Hindu Samaj in January seeking permission to hold a social programme on January 29. In the letter, it was informed that a march is being organised by the Sakal Hindu Samaj from Shivaji Park to Maharashtra State Labor Welfare Board in Dadar, demanding strict law against those who abuse women and hinder their safety and dignity, as well as for women who are victims of social malpractices.

The FIR stated that the march was allowed by the police. Accordingly, a rally was held in which Singh delivered a speech that went viral on social media.

A senior officer said, “… some of its contents would hamper religious harmony and create division between communities on the basis of religion and also increase enmity between two religions. Hence, after verifying that the speech was delivered by MLA Raja Singh, he was booked.”

While BJP leaders who participated in the rally did not speak on the dias on January 29, Singh addressed the crowd for almost 30 minutes. “It is time the Hindu community gets together and stands up against domination by a community. Our sisters and daughters are falling prey to these systematic schemes by a community. I urge every Hindu to boycott the purchase of any goods from shops run by members of the minority community,” he had said.

Singh was arrested last August for allegedly making objectionable remarks against Prophet Muhammad in a video posted on social media. Soon after his remarks sparked a row, he was suspended by the BJP.

Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With more than nine years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read More

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