Hindu outfits target Bengaluru's Idgah Maidan, another controversy looms

Bengaluru: Just as the state is still roiling in the controversy over hijab, another is in the making.

This time it is India's major IT hub Bengaluru where the communal frenzy happening across the state found no foothold so far, remaining off-limits to narrow outlooks.

Now Hindu outfits are planning planning to hold Independence Day celebrations at Idgah Maidan in the city in order to object the area " being treated as the property of minorities", according to IANS.

According to the report after Jamia Masjid in Srirangapatna, Malali Masjid in Dakshina Kannada, and Peer Shah Dargah in Bidar controversy will soon loom over the Idgah Maidan.

Alongside hoisting tricolor on August 15, Hindu outfits have plans to celebrate Yoga Day on June 12 on the grounds.

Hindu activist Pathapat Srinivas on Thursday said that Hindu leaders are meeting Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai with a request to hoist the 'tiranga' (tricolour) and celebrate the Yoga Day there, IANS reported.

Congress lawmaker for Chamaraj Pet, Zameer Ahmad Khan said that he would get the biggest masjid in Begaluru built in 2.5 acres of Idgah Maidan, Pathapat Srinivas alleged.

He also alleged plans for fielding Leader of Opposition Siddaramaiah to contest elections at Chamrajpet.

Following the row, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) claimed the ownership of the land.

Muslim leaders came out disputing it saying that the property belong to Wakf Board, adding that they would not allow Yoga Day on the premises.

Meanwhile, Hindu activists met BBMP's Special Commissioner Rangappa on Thursday seeking permission for the celebration of the Independence Day and Yoga Day, according to report.

Other outfits to enter the controversy include the Sri Rama Sene, Vishwa Sanatan Parishad, and Vande Mataram Samaja Seva Samsthe.

However, Muslim leaders have stated that they will hoist the Indian tricolour.