In Chhattisgarh's Bilaspur district, a 60-year-old government school headmaster has been arrested for allegedly hurting religious sentiments by administering a pledge against believing in Hindu gods and encouraging the embrace of Buddhism. The incident occurred on January 22, and the headmaster, Ratalal Sarovar, was suspended by the district education officer following the controversy.
On the day of the consecration of Ram Lalla's idol at the Ayodhya temple, Sarovar gathered a group of people, including children, in Mohtarai village. It is alleged that he administered a pledge discouraging the worship of Hindu gods such as Lord Shiv, Ram, and Krishna, and advocated for embracing Buddhism. A complaint by Rupesh Shukla, a member of a right-wing organization, claimed that Sarovar's actions hurt the sentiments of Sanatan Dharma followers.
The incident came to light after a video of Sarovar's alleged act went viral on social media. Subsequently, based on the complaint, Sarovar was arrested on Sunday. He is charged under sections 153A (promoting enmity between different groups based on religion, race, etc.) and 295A (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings) of the Indian Penal Code. An ongoing probe is being conducted into the case by the police.
(With Agency Inputs)
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