UP Guv backs Bajrang Dal self-defence camp, says 'no harm' in it

Downplaying the furore over the annual self-defence camp organised by the Bajrang Dal in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya city, Governor Ram Naik on Tuesday 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.

"There is no harm in self-defence camps, what's important is to understand the intention behind them. All kinds of education teaching self defence is important and it should be continued at all costs. How can those who can't defend themselves, defend the society? Self defence must be taught in schools and other institutions," Naik told the media here.

However, the Congress has strongly condemned the defence camp and accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of 'polarizing' the situation in the state going to polls next year.

"There is no use of making this kind of environment in the nation. The people in BJP will now do these kinds of activities everyday to polarise the situation as the elections are round the corner in Uttar Pradesh," Congress leader Meem Afzal told ANI.

"Instead of trying to polarize the situation, they should work for betterment of the country," he added.

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.

Manoj Verma, the organizer, said the cadres are given a lot of boost during the camps.

"We prepare them to boost their self-esteem. This training is of self-defence. They are taught to tackle different situations. This is about self-confidence," Verma said.

"This whole annual program is about boosting the self-confidence and morale of the cadres," he added.

Bajrang Dal, which is the youth wing of Vishva Hindu Parishad, has faced allegations of rioting and violence against religious minorities in the past.