BJP Hyderabad Candidate Addresses Mosque Controversy Amidst ‘Imaginary Arrow’ Row
“BJP Hyderabad Candidate Addresses Controversy Over Mosque Gesture: Offers Apology and Questions Video Authenticity”
Madhavi Latha, BJP’s candidate for the Hyderabad seat, found herself embroiled in controversy following a video circulated online. Showing her mimicking shooting an arrow near a mosque during a Ram Navami rally. The action drew strong criticism, particularly from AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, who denounced it as “vulgar, obscene, and provocative.”
Latha issued a statement expressing regret “if anyone’s feelings are hurt,” while also suggesting that the circulated video was incomplete. In the video snippet, Latha, adorned in saffron attire with a garland of yellow flowers. Theatrically simulates drawing and firing an arrow, accompanied by loud music. The footage notably pans to capture the nearby mosque at the moment of the ‘arrow’s’ release.
BJP Hyderabad Candidate Addresses Mosque Controversy Amidst ‘Imaginary Arrow’ Row
Responding to the backlash, Latha clarified on social media, stating. “It has come to my notice that a video of mine is being circulated… I would like to clarify that this is an incomplete video and if anyone’s feelings are hurt due to such a video, I would like to apologise.”
She further defended herself in a conversation with PTI, alleging a conspiracy against the BJP and questioning the presence of the mosque in the vicinity of her gesture. She asserted that her intention was merely to gesture shooting an arrow towards the sky and denied any deliberate provocation.
However, Owaisi remained steadfast in his condemnation, asserting that the people of Hyderabad would not tolerate such actions by the BJP and RSS. He emphasized the importance of peace and communal harmony in the region, accusing the BJP of attempting to disrupt it.
Owaisi’s party has urged the Election Commission to intervene in the matter. Hyderabad, along with the 16 other Lok Sabha seats in Telangana, will vote on May 17, with results expected on June