Authorities have not given clearance for the camps.
By Sreekanth A. Nair
Right-wing organization Bajrang Dal will be holding controversial self-defense training camps in Rajasthan after the similar camps were conducted in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh recently.
The camps in UP had triggered controversy as a video of the camp was released in which the attendees were seen using lathis, swords and firearms against men dressed in skull caps and holding firearms, reported The Hindustan Times.
While the organization is going ahead with its decision, the authorities have made it clear that Bajrang Dal doesn’t have the permission to hold such camps. The camps will be conducted in Bhinmal from May 31 and in Tonk from June 9. About 300 members will attend each camp named the ‘Shaurya camps’ where counter-terrorism tactics will be taught.
“If they hold weapons training, it is against the law. We will take action,” Jalore additional superintendent of police Raghunath Garg told Hindustan Times.
Tonk district collector Mahavir Prasad Sharma said, “They need to take permission for any such gathering where weapons will be on display.”
Mahesh Mishra, a leader of the Dal was arrested following the camp for hurting religious sentiments. But the organization is alleging that the UP government is trying to give the camps a communal color by arresting its volunteers.
“If we want to train people to defend themselves in case of a terror attack or make Hindu girls aware about being exploited by Muslim men or prevent cows from being slaughtered, how is that communal?” the outfit’s Jaipur convener Ashok Singh Rajawat was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.