Viral Video: A video capturing Hyderabad BJP candidate Madhavi Latha’s symbolic gesture during a Ram Navami Yatra has sparked outrage in the midst of the ongoing 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The viral footage shows Latha mimicking the act of drawing a bowstring, purportedly aiming at a nearby mosque during the religious procession on Ram Navami, Wednesday.
Owaisi Condemns “Provocative Actions”
Asaduddin Owaisi, the influential leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), swiftly condemned the incident, accusing the BJP of harboring divisive intentions. “The people of Hyderabad have witnessed the BJP’s true colors. They will not tolerate the BJP-RSS’s vulgar and provocative actions,” Owaisi asserted.
He further questioned the party’s vision of a “Developed India,” asserting, “Is this the ‘Viksit Bharat’ BJP is talking about? The peace of Hyderabad is greater than elections.”
Latha Clarifies, Offers Apology
In response, Madhavi Latha took to ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) to address the controversy surrounding the incomplete video circulating on various media platforms. She clarified that the footage failed to capture the entire context, potentially fueling negativity. “I would like to clarify that it’s an incomplete video, and if anyone’s sentiments are hurt because of such a video, then I would like to apologize, as I respect all individuals,” Latha stated in her post.
Prior Statements Fuel Tensions
Earlier, during the Ram Navami Shobha Yatra, Latha had made provocative statements, alleging a conspiracy aimed at preventing Hindus from celebrating their festivals. “Aren’t the Hindu-Muslim brothers one? Isn’t Shri Ram Navami as important as Ramzan for them (state government)? We want every Muslim brother to celebrate Ramzan and pray at the Masjid…” she had remarked.