Protect Hindu girls at all costs: Minister

MADIKERI:

Union minister Anantkumar Hegde

on Sunday sparked a controversy when he exhorted Hindus to “immediately retaliate” when “someone from another religion” hurts or causes harm to

Hindu girls.

“Hindu girls should be protected at all costs,” he said, addressing a

Hindu unity conference

in Somwarpet .

Hinduism

facing threat, says Hegde

Immediate retaliation should follow if anybody touches them,” Anantkumar Hegde said.

He said Hinduism was facing a serious threat. “If (Hindus) you continue to sleep, you may lose your identity,” he said. “The community should stop discriminating against people within the community and work towards protecting each other.”

He also alleged the LDF government in Kerala had vitiated the peaceful atmosphere by raking up the Sabarimala issue. He cautioned people of Kodagu to be wary of “outsiders” who have made the district their home for anti-social activities.

A police officer confirmed to TOI that the speech was aggressive, but said they wouldn’t take suo motu action. “We’ll look into the audio tape if we receive a complaint,” he said.