Controversial Hindu priest Yati Narsinghanand delivered another inflammatory speech targeting Muslims during an event in Haridwar on December 20, after being denied permission to hold a three-day ‘Dharam Sansad’ from December 19-21. The gathering was relocated to an ‘akhara,’ where Narsinghanand called for the destruction of his detractors and reiterated his demand for a “Sanatan Vedic Nation.” In his speech, he declared that such a nation would have “no room for a single mosque, madrasa, or jihadi,” likening its role to Israel’s protective stance for Jews. Police confirmed they are analyzing video footage of the event for objectionable content.

The Haridwar SSP, Pramendra Dobhal, stated that while a one-minute clip of the speech is circulating online, a 15-minute recording is under scrutiny to determine whether it constitutes hate speech. The police have assured that appropriate action will be taken if the speech violates laws. Meanwhile, the Uttarakhand High Court reiterated the Supreme Court’s directive in the Shaheen Abdullah case, urging state authorities to address hate speech against religious communities suo-motu, without waiting for formal complaints. This directive underscores the growing concern over communal tensions fueled by such events.

The gathering also featured other speakers who echoed Islamophobic sentiments, further stoking controversy. Critics have condemned the event as a blatant attempt to incite violence and deepen communal divides. The district administration, which had initially denied permission for the Dharam Sansad, has faced questions about the enforcement of law and order. With hate speech investigations ongoing and legal precedents pushing for accountability, the incident has once again spotlighted the challenges of countering extremism while maintaining communal harmony in India.