New Delhi, August 6, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Thursday criticised All India Imam Association President Maulana Sajid Rashidi for describing Kanwariyas as “terrorists,” asserting that it was wrong to brand an entire community based on the alleged actions of a few individuals.
The controversy arose after Rashidi, while commenting on videos circulating on social media that purportedly showed some Kanwariyas consuming alcohol, engaging in unruly behaviour and creating disturbances, questioned whether such individuals could be considered devotees of Lord Shiva.
Speaking to IANS, Rashidi said those allegedly assaulting police personnel, damaging a school van, injuring children, obstructing an ambulance and forcing people to chant religious slogans could not be called Shiv devotees. “They are not Shiv Bhakts; they are terrorists,” he said.
Reacting to the remarks, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale said it was inappropriate to describe all Kanwariyas as terrorists.
“There may be one or two criminals, but that does not mean every Kanwariya is a terrorist. Every religion may have some individuals involved in crime, but it is wrong to label an entire community in this manner,” he said.
BJP MP Janardan Singh Sigriwal said the Kanwar Yatra was an expression of deep faith and devotion, adding that any attempt to insult the religious sentiments associated with it would not be accepted by society.
Bihar Minister Mithilesh Kumar Tiwari also criticised Rashidi’s statement, saying devotees of Lord Shiva are respected symbols of Sanatan Dharma and alleging that such remarks were offensive to religious sentiments.
BJP Bihar Vice-President Pawan Jaiswal described the comments as unfortunate and said they were capable of creating social discord by targeting devotees during the holy month of Shravan.
Another Bihar Minister, Dilip Jaiswal, said irresponsible statements were often made by individuals seeking publicity and did not deserve undue attention.
RJD Chief Spokesperson Shakti Singh Yadav also condemned Rashidi’s remarks, saying every individual has the right to practise their faith and that no one should make objectionable comments about another religion or its followers.
He added that such statements only promote hatred and social division.
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