Bajrang Dal vs Kalparna Gupta: Social Media Remarks Trigger Police Action

Police detained Kalparna Gupta after Bajrang Dal members lodged complaints against him over alleged social media remarks concerning the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Bajrang Dal, Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Hindu deities.

Bajrang Dal members claimed that Gupta had repeatedly made what they described as objectionable remarks against Hindu organisations and beliefs on social media. They also alleged that he compared members of the Bajrang Dal with rapists.

According to Bajrang Dal representatives, around two FIRs have been filed against Gupta. They alleged that he had linked the RSS, Bajrang Dal and VHP with politics and had made remarks concerning Saraswati Puja and the hijab issue at Cachar College.

The representatives further alleged that Gupta had questioned the presence of Saraswati Puja inside the college campus in connection with the hijab controversy and had suggested that the wearing of shakha sindoor should also be prohibited on campus.

Bajrang Dal members also alleged that Gupta has continued to make posts concerning Hindu beliefs on social media.

On Sunday night (September 27), Bajrang Dal workers reportedly gathered outside Gupta’s residence at First Link Road in Silchar. Personnel from the Rangirkhari Police Outpost reached the spot after receiving information about the situation.

Police subsequently took Gupta to the police station. Police said he was being kept in police custody.

Bajrang Dal representatives warned that they would launch a larger movement against people who make what they consider objectionable remarks against Hindu organisations.

The allegations made by the Bajrang Dal are yet to be established by a court. The exact sections of law invoked in the FIRs and Gupta’s response to the allegations were not immediately available.