Two years back, the term 'love jihad' was just a part of the fringe discourse, used mainly by the Bajrang Dal or the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP). Today, it has been mainstreamed, so much so that four state governments -- all ruled by the BJP -- have expressed their intent to bring a law to contain this phenomenon.
The word 'love jihad' is particularly used to insinuate that the union is not out of affection, but with the sole intent to convert the partner. The proposed laws by the four states -- Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Haryana -- seek to stop that.
Recently, Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut was also asked about the love Jihad law by the media. However, Raut gave an interesting answer to that. He said, "Lot of discussions are going on regarding 'Love Jihad'. I think it's a serious matter. West Bengal elections are coming up, a new topic should be brought to the fore. We believe, development is a major issue for election but 'Love Jihad' will be discussed."
"Some people are raising this issue in Maharashtra too, asking us that when will we bring a law? I spoke with the CM today, I would like to say that when Nitish ji frames this law in Bihar, we will examine it and then think about the same, for Maharashtra," Raut added.
Also Read: “Congress is on its lowest in the last 72 years”, Ghulam N Azad criticises Congress leadership
Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Saturday advocated the implementation of a law against love jihad in Bihar. Singh said: "It would be a great initiative if Bihar government introduces a law against love jihad. I appeal to CM Nitish Kumar to do the same."
He said that love jihad has nothing to do with communalism. If a law will be implemented in Bihar it will help maintain social harmony.
WITH INPUTS FROM IANS