VHP claims 254 Hindus killed in attacks this year, calls for fast-track trials, surveillance

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has reported 254 Hindu fatalities due to attacks allegedly carried out by "jihadis" in the first eight months of the current year. The RSS-affiliated organization has urged for expedited trials in such cases, stricter oversight of madrasas and surveillance cameras in sensitive areas. VHP joint general secretary Surendra Jain released a 26-page list of cases compiled from media reports, detailing the date, location, victim and accused for each incident.

However, the classification of these incidents as "jihadis" is the VHP's own determination. Jain emphasized that the list only includes reported cases and suggested that there might be unreported incidents. He called for fast-track courts for cases driven by religious hatred and adult trials for minors accused of such offenses. The VHP also demanded strict regulation of madrasas, which they view as centers for "religious fanaticism and hatred".

High-resolution cameras are to be installed in sensitive areas, mosques, and madrasas, with monitoring connected to local police stations. Jain claimed Hindus are the primary targets of "jihadis" in India and advised Hindus in sensitive areas to remain vigilant and prepared for self-defense. The VHP and its associated group Bajrang Dal are considering constitutional measures for Hindu protection, though Jain did not provide further details.

He also praised Flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for thwarting an alleged terror plot, claiming it averted a "9/11-style" attack. Jain urged for a global strategy against "Islamist terrorism", a day after ABVP, another Sangh-affiliated group, demanded Machchhar be awarded the Ashoka Chakra. Jain alleged that "appeasement" under the guise of secular politics has exacerbated Islamist radicalism in India, citing incidents like attacks on Hindu religious events, "love jihad" cases and assaults on Hindu settlements.