Agartala: Shanu Malakar, a folk singer and street performer, was allegedly heckled and threatened for singing Kailash Kher’s “Allah ke bande” at the famous Tripurasundari temple in Tripura’s Gomati district.
The incident came to light after a video of the confrontation went viral on social media on May 18.
The opposition CPI (M) on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, demanding swift action from the state government and accusing it of fostering an atmosphere of intolerance.
During a live performance, Malakar was accosted by a man who identified himself as a “rashtravadi” (nationalist).
In the video, Malakar is purportedly threatened and questioned by the individual for singing praises of Allah on temple premises, with the person stating such acts were inappropriate for a temple.
Known for its spiritual and humanitarian appeal, the song, which includes lyrics invoking “Allah,” was performed by the artiste in front of a crowd.
After the video went viral, CPI (M) leaders in the state swiftly condemned the incident, calling on the administration for immediate action against the person who heckled the artiste.
They underscored the critical need to safeguard freedom of expression and maintain cultural harmony.
CPIM politburo member and leader of opposition Jitendra Chaudhury said, “A youth, Sanu Malakar, a local singer who also earns money through his street dance performances and displaying physical acrobatics, was seen, in a social media video, singing the song which is devotional as well to appeal for humanity. A person threatened him in front of a huge gathering and questioned him why he uttered Allah. I appeal to the state government and the police to step in at the earliest.”
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Notably, the District Magistrate of Gomati had previously issued an advisory prohibiting the filming or uploading of content that could incite communal tensions or hurt religious sentiments.
