22, Aug 2023 | CJP team

On August 10, Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) filed a complaint with the National Commission for Minority (NCM) urging the authorities to take swift and prompt action against Suresh Chavhanke for the speeches delivered by him in the month of July 2023. Chavhanke, who is the chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Sudarshan News, gave five speeches last month through which he directed hate towards a religious minority community and raised calls for the establishment of a Hindu nation.

CJP has meticulously documented the instances of Chavhanke’s inflammatory rhetoric targeting minority communities, promoting misinformation, and inciting division among various religious groups and submitted a comprehensive complaint to the NCM. CJP’s complaint underscores the pressing need for immediate action to prevent potential violence, erosion of social harmony, and the violation of legal and ethical standards.

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The complaint filed against Chavhanke emphasizes several critical points that underscore the gravity of the situation. Through this complaint, CJP aims to shed light on the deeply troubling nature of Chavhanke’s actions and the urgent need for intervention to prevent further harm. Following is a summary of what the speeches entailed, a brief overview of the speeches covered in the complaint sent-

1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Chavhanke suggested that a Muslim place of worship could be forcibly converted into a temple if judicial decisions did not align with his preferences. He voiced anti-Muslim sentiments, inciting violence and mistrust among communities.
2. Kopargaon, Maharashtra: Chavhanke mocked Islamic religious practices, called for banning loudspeakers at mosques, and spread conspiracy theories about Madrassas. His divisive rhetoric undermined mutual understanding and respect.
3. Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh: He made unsubstantiated claims about mosques being constructed over temples and incited action to “free” these alleged temples. Chavhanke’s speeches promoted religious supremacy and defied established legal processes.
4. Jhansi, Madhya Pradesh: Chavhanke propagated conspiracy theories, distorted historical facts, and incited animosity against specific communities. His speech aimed to create a narrative of threat to Hindu heritage.
5. Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh: Inflammatory speeches by Chavhanke and other speakers endorsed violent actions, promoted religious exclusivity, and incited hostility. The speeches spread fear and undermined the unity of India’s diverse society.

The complaint to NCM draws attention to the disturbing recurrence of hate speech by Chavhanke. The instances presented in the complaint occurred across multiple locations in July reveals a consistent pattern of incendiary rhetoric targeting minority communities. This pattern illustrates the alarming escalation of Chavhanke’s divisive agenda and the danger it poses to social harmony. Furthermore, the complaint underscores how Chavhanke’s speeches not only incite violence but also contribute to the growing hostility and tension between different religious groups. By openly advocating actions against specific religious sites and communities, his words hold the potential to translate into real-world conflicts and harmful consequences.

The complaint also highlights Chavhanke’s reliance on misinformation and conspiracy theories to fuel his divisive agenda. His use of baseless claims perpetuates negative stereotypes and spreads false narratives about different religious practices and communities. This misinformation exacerbates existing prejudices and animosities, further eroding the trust and coexistence necessary for a harmonious society.

By fostering mistrust, resentment, and division among communities, his speeches undermine the values of inclusivity and mutual respect that are vital for maintaining peaceful coexistence in a diverse society.

Lastly, the complaint stresses Chavhanke’s disregard for established legal processes and the rule of law. His defiance of judicial directives, as well as his promotion of vigilantism and actions that bypass legal mechanisms, raises concerns about the integrity of democratic institutions and accountability.

Finally, CJP has prayed for specific directions from the NCM: for decisive action in response to the alarming instances of hate speech by Chavhanke by acknowledging the complaint’s gravity under section 9(1)(d) of the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992. Additionally, the complaint has sought the Commission’s intervention to summon Chavhanke for examination, closely monitor investigations under sections 9(4)(a) and (b) to (e) of the NCMA, and direct the respective Directors General of Police (DGP) to conduct comprehensive investigations.

The complaint also urges the Commission to ensure the submission of Action Taken Reports and progress updates from the police of concerned states, and to issue any relevant additional directions. By invoking the Commission’s authority, CJP emphasises the need for thorough scrutiny, accountability, and appropriate measures to counteract hate speech and preserve social harmony.

The complete complaint can be read below-

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