Shiv Sena backs Bajrang Dal, says 'take arms to fight terrorism'

Recalling the vision of party founder Bal Thackeray, the Shiv Sena on Wednesday backed the 'self defence' camp organised by the VHP's youth wing Bajrang Dal in Uttar Pradesh and said that it was important to fight against terrorism in the country.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut questioned the police action to lodge an FIR against the Bajrang Dal's office-bearers for disturbing peace, law and order and communal harmony.

"There are hidden camps of Jaish-e-Mohammad, Toiba in our country. Do they take permission for that from the government? If our people take preparations to fight them, then why is FIR lodged?" Raut told ANI.

He further stated that it was important for the youth to learn how to defend themselves.

"This has become an election issue there. The Uttar Pradesh Government must take steps carefully. I welcome the Uttar Pradesh Governor. Let the social organisations and political parties run their camps. Bal Thackeray had said that if we have to fight with terrorism, we have to take up arms.this is right," he added.

An FIR was lodged late last night against the Bajrang Dal activists, following a video that showed the cadres taking part in a mock drill where men wearing skull caps have been portrayed as terrorists.

Faizabad Superintend of Police Sankalp Sharma told ANI that the FIR has been registered under Section 153 A for promoting enmity between different groups and added that the matter is being investigated.

In the annual self-defence camp, the Bajrang Dal cadres are trained to use rifles, swords and sticks so that they can 'protect the Hindus'.

Similar camps would be held till June 5 in Sultanpur, Gorakhpur, Pilibhit, Noida and Fatehpur cities in the state.

The cadres can be seen killing men dressed as Muslims during the mock drill.

Downplaying the furore over the annual self-defence camp, Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik yesterday said that there was nothing wrong in conducting such camps, adding it should be continued at all costs.

Justifying his stand, Naik said such camps promote self-defence, which was a skill that should be imbibed by every individual.