Narendra Modi's right hand man stopped for inciting hatred against Muslims
New Delhi (AsiaNews) - Narendra Modi, the odds on favourite for prime minister who is running under the banner of the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has suffered a major blow. His right hand man, Amit Shah (pictured), has been barred from future campaign rallies after making a number of anti-Muslim statements. A close Modi aide for years, Shah was in charge of his campaign in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state.
In announcing its decision on Sunday, the Election Commission said that Shah's statements promoted "hatred and ill will" between religions. It also urged police to press criminal charges.
The politician, among other things, is presently out on bail on charges of instigating the murder of three people, who were planning to kill Modi.
Shah's remarks cited by the commission date back to earlier this month, and were made during a rally in Uttar Pradesh, scene of communal violence last year between Hindus and Muslims.
During a meeting, Shah urged those present not to vote for parties with Muslim candidates, claiming that Muslims in the area had raped, killed and humiliated Hindus.
In fact, Hindu-Muslim relations have been a much-discussed topic in the months leading up to this election.
The 2002 communal massacres in Gujarat also remain a stain on Modi's reputation. For many, even in the Christian community, he bears a great responsibility for the tragedy. Muslims especially paid a heavy price with almost a thousand dead and hundreds injured.
Modi, a three-time Gujarat chief minister, has always denied any involvement in the massacres or having any personal animosity towards Muslims.
However, he never apologised for what happened and on several occasions has made offensive comments about Muslims. Many of his supporters are also openly anti-Muslim.
About 13 per cent of India's population is Muslim.
With a population of 200 million people (more than Brazil), the northern state of Uttar Pradesh is considered a crucial piece in the electoral puzzle. Without it, it would be impossible to win a majority and form a new government.
.png)
