An FIR has been registered against Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MLA Jitendra Awhad for allegedly hurting religious feelings with his comment that Lord Ram was a non-vegetarian. The complaint was filed by the city BJP chief Dhiraj Ghate, leading to the registration of the case under Section 295 (A) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) at Vishrambag police station.
Awhad, a former Maharashtra minister affiliated with the Sharad Pawar-led faction of the NCP, made the controversial remark during an NCP conclave at Shirdi. He stated that Lord Ram was a non-vegetarian, highlighting his hunting and eating habits. The MLA further asserted that they, as followers of Ram, consume mutton, and he would express regret if anyone’s sentiments were hurt.
The comment stirred controversy and led to the filing of the FIR against Awhad. The case falls under the section of the IPC that deals with deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings. The legal action reflects the sensitivity surrounding religious sentiments in the context of political discourse.