Row over 'remarks' by lecturer ends after peace meet

The controversy involving a government PU college lecturer in Doddaballapur town for reportedly making objectionable remarks against Prophet Muhammad died down after a peace meeting with local leaders on Thursday. MLA T Venkataramana chaired the meeting of local Muslim leaders and Hindu organisations at the sub-divisional office.

Leaders of both the communities decided to maintain peace and end the controversy over the issue.

Local BJP and Hindu organisations leaders demanded that the police withdraw the case against T R Rame Gowda, the lecturer. They also sought action against some persons for barging into the college without permission and arguing with the principal. They also wanted police protection for Gowda.

Local Muslim leader Azeem Pasha clarified that there was no agenda for lodging a complaint against Gowda. He said the complaint would be withdrawn.

Bengaluru Rural district Additional SP Narayan clarified that there was no provision in the law to withdraw cases without any reasons. The police would investigate the case as per the law and no action would be taken against the lecturer if he is not found guilty.

The SP said that stern action would be taken against those trying to stage protests and taking out processions over the issue.

Local Muslim leaders lodged a complaint against Gowda after four girls complained that he had made objectionable remarks against Prophet Muhammad while delivering a lecture on Hin­du, Muslim Marriage Acts on October 3. The police registered a case and arrested Gowda.

There was a protest in front of the Doddaballapur town police station the next day seeking action against Gowda. Leaders of Hindu organisations had objected and claimed that the lecturer was arrested without any reason.
DH News Service