Shimla, May 30,
Following a complaint by the Solan Sub Divisional Magistrate, the police have registered a case against Rashmidhar Sood, Vice President of Himachal Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP), and Meera Anand, Deputy Mayor of Solan Municipal Corporation. They are charged with disobedience and violations under the Religious Institutions (Prevention of Misuse) Act.
The incident involved the chanting of a political song “Bhajan” in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi within the complex of the goddess Shoolini temple, a revered site in Solan. This act, which occurred on Wednesday evening, sparked criticism from various societal sections, including leaders of the ruling Congress party. Complaints were subsequently filed with the Election Commission and Solan district administration. District Election Officer cum Deputy Commissioner Solan Manmohan Sharma ordered a detailed inquiry by SDM Poonam Bansal and requested legal action against the accused leaders.
On Thursday, the police registered a case under Sections 188, 505(3), and 34 of the IPC, along with Section 7 of the Religious Institutions (Prevention of Misuse) Act, 1988, against Rashmidhar Sood and Meera Anand.
Solan Superintendent of Police Gaurav Singh reported that the complaint from the SDM mentioned social media evidence showing Sood and Anand, along with their supporters, singing political “bhajans” at the Shoolini temple to benefit their political party. The police also recorded statements from the temple’s priest, Naresh Kumar, and Sevadar Pushpa Mehta, who confirmed the alleged misuse of the temple premises for political purposes.
The chanting of political songs at the Shoolini temple has not only offended the sentiments of devotees but also highlighted the misuse of a religious site. Congress Solan District President Shiv Kumar condemned the act, urging the Election Commission and District Administration to take strict action against the guilty leaders. He criticized the BJP for linking religion with politics, which he deemed objectionable and detrimental to societal peace and harmony.
Solan DC Manmohan Sharma confirmed that an inquiry is underway and that necessary legal actions will be taken against those found guilty.
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