Lucknow: Despite having a code of conduct in place, the divisive and contemptuous communal statements from the BJP leaders continued uninterrupted in UP, where the assembly elections began. The latest was from BJP MLA Raghvendra Pratap Singh, who said those who have Muslim blood in their veins will not vote for him.
The legislature has also charges of the Hindu Yuva Vahini, an outfit infamous for their attacks in the name of 'Love Jihad' and cow protection. Pratap Singh is now standing for the second time to be re-elected from Domariyaganj constituency.
In a video, Pratap Singh is heard making statements which could tear the already fragile communal fabric of the state, for which the Election Commission can invalidate the MLA's candidature. Despite the recurrences of such communal statements from leaders and candidates, the EC has reportedly not taken any action or cases.
Meanwhile, Pratap Singh tried justifying his comments that the statement was appropriate for his intended context. Reports suggested that though the MLA admitted making the statement, but he said it was for a particular context and threatening anybody was not his intention.
In the video, the legislator is purportedly heard using expletives. He says: "Tell me, will any Muslim vote for me? So be aware that if Hindus of this village support another side, they have Muslim blood in their veins. They are traitors… Even after so many atrocities, if a Hindu goes over to the other side, he should not be allowed to show his face in public," reported The Indian Express.