📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Seattle City Council from Seattle
Politics
Sawant says probe underway into ‘Hindutva Murdabad’ chants at SIR protest
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 15 Oct 2026, 02:16 AM
👁 15
Political leader Sawant announced that authorities are investigating the use of the slogan “Hindutva Murdabad” during a recent SIR protest. The probe aims to determine whether the chants violated law.
Sawant, a senior figure in the opposition, told reporters that law‑enforcement agencies have opened a formal inquiry into the chanting of “Hindutva Murdabad” at a protest organized by the SIR group. He said the investigation will assess whether the slogans breach provisions of the Indian Penal Code related to hate speech and public order.
The SIR protest, held earlier this week, attracted a sizable crowd and saw participants raise the controversial chant repeatedly. While supporters claim the slogan expresses dissent, critics argue it targets a specific community and could incite unrest.
Sawant emphasized that any unlawful speech must be dealt with swiftly, adding that the probe is not aimed at silencing legitimate protest but at upholding the rule of law. He urged the authorities to act transparently and keep the public informed of the findings.
Police have not released details of the investigative team or a timeline for conclusions. The matter is expected to be monitored closely by both civil society groups and political parties ahead of upcoming elections.
The development adds to a growing list of incidents where slogans and symbols at public demonstrations are being scrutinised for potential legal violations, reflecting heightened sensitivities around communal rhetoric in India.
The SIR protest, held earlier this week, attracted a sizable crowd and saw participants raise the controversial chant repeatedly. While supporters claim the slogan expresses dissent, critics argue it targets a specific community and could incite unrest.
Sawant emphasized that any unlawful speech must be dealt with swiftly, adding that the probe is not aimed at silencing legitimate protest but at upholding the rule of law. He urged the authorities to act transparently and keep the public informed of the findings.
Police have not released details of the investigative team or a timeline for conclusions. The matter is expected to be monitored closely by both civil society groups and political parties ahead of upcoming elections.
The development adds to a growing list of incidents where slogans and symbols at public demonstrations are being scrutinised for potential legal violations, reflecting heightened sensitivities around communal rhetoric in India.