BJP MP Pradeep Kumar Singh faces death threats from Saudi Arabia and Dubai after controversial “Hindu” statement

BJP MP Pradeep Kumar Singh from Araria is facing escalating tensions after making a controversial statement that residents in Araria must convert to Hinduism to live there. This statement was made during a public gathering attended by Union Minister Giriraj Singh and has drawn sharp criticism from political opponents and civil rights groups. The fallout from this declaration has led to public outcry and a significant rise in threats against Singh and his family, raising concerns about communal harmony in the region.

In a formal letter addressed to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Home Minister Amit Shah, Singh reported receiving death threats via phone calls from individuals claiming to be located in Saudi Arabia and Dubai. He detailed these threats, stating they are both alarming and persistent, and expressed grave concerns about the safety of his family. This development not only highlights the personal risks faced by politicians in India but also underscores the broader implications for political discourse and public safety in a highly polarized environment.

In light of these threats, local police have significantly enhanced Singh’s security protocols. Araria Superintendent of Police Amit Ranjan confirmed that the MP is now accompanied by a team of additional security personnel whenever he travels within his constituency. The police have instituted a protective detail that includes monitoring potential threats and ensuring that Singh is safe while engaging with constituents. This decision comes in response to both the nature of the threats and Singh’s previous experiences with intimidation.

Singh’s media cell in-charge, Abhijit Kumar Jha, has taken proactive steps by submitting an application to the Araria police detailing the ongoing harassment. He reported that numerous videos are circulating on social media platforms, openly threatening Singh and his family. These threats have been communicated through various channels, including Facebook, WhatsApp, and direct phone calls, indicating a coordinated effort to intimidate the MP. This online harassment is compounded by the vitriol present in these videos, which often include graphic and derogatory language aimed at Singh and his family.

This is not the first instance of threats against Singh; he previously encountered a similar situation in May 2013 when he received a death threat via phone during a visit to Patna, leading him to file an FIR at the Kotwali police station. Furthermore, on September 2, 2024, he reported another incident where he was threatened with being blown up. The local administration is taking these threats seriously, ensuring continuous surveillance and security measures at Singh’s residence. Authorities are also collaborating with cyber units to monitor social media for any emerging threats and to track the sources of harassment.