Bharatiya Janta Party candidate Kompella Madhavi Latha symbolically directed an arrow at a Masjid during a roadshow on the occasion of Ram Navami celebrations in Hyderabad on Wednesday (April 17). The incident has sparked off widespread criticism and accusations of promoting communalism and hate.

A video of BJP leader went viral on social media. In the video, Madhavi Latha is seen standing in a jeep at Siddiamber junction, pretending to aim an arrow, while onlookers watch. The crowd films the BJP leader’s action using mobile phones and cheers her on.
 

In a shocking display of hate, @BJP4India candidate @Kompella_MLatha is directing arrows at a #Masjid on the occasion of #RamNavami

This is pure hate & Communalism & will disturb the law & order of peaceful #Hyderabad @ECISVEEP & @hydcitypolice failed to stop this. https://t.co/YEZqBlqell pic.twitter.com/cpNt6rxZBV

— Zadraan_???????? (@Zadraan_) April 18, 2024

The controversial gesture by the BJP candidate Lok Sabha Hyderabad has drawn condemnation from various quarters, with many expressing dismay over the perceived divisive nature of the gesture during a religious festival. 

Several social media users argued that such actions have the potential to incite tensions and sow discord in the community.
 

Unacceptable provocation… BJP candidate from Hyderabad Madhavi Latha seen here pretending to shoot an arrow at a mosque during the Ram Navami procession in Hyderabad ???????????????? pic.twitter.com/CK1UWpJ8b3

— Akshita Nandagopal (@Akshita_N) April 18, 2024

Users also called on the authorities and the Election Commission to take note of the incident and to initiate action against the BJP candidate.