Congress Alleges Government Funding in Hate Speech Event

The Congress accused the Union Ministry of Culture of funding a December event where hate speeches targeting Muslims were made. Congress demands legislation to curb hate speech, as details were disclosed through an RTI. Union ministers reportedly attended the event organized by Sanatan Sanstha.

The Congress on Wednesday accused the Union Ministry of Culture of financially supporting an event last December where alleged hate speeches against Muslims were made. Congress demands immediate legislative action to curb hate speech nationwide.

During a press conference, Congress spokesperson Ragini Nayak Basoya cited an RTI response revealing the Ministry's Rs 63 lakh funding of the 'Sanatan Rashtra Shankhnad Mahotsava' event organised by Sanatan Sanstha at Bharat Mandapam.

Basoya claimed the event, attended by Union ministers and BJP leaders, featured speeches labeling Muslims as 'infiltrators' and provided strategies on converting them. Basoya stressed the urgency for laws to prevent hate speech, noting its increasing mainstream presence.

(With inputs from agencies.)