Controversial Figure Azam Khan: AZ Incites Hate Speech Arrested for Facebook Live Rant

Mumbai, April 22, 2023 - Bollywood actor and politician Azam Khan, a notorious figure known for his controversial and incendiary remarks, has found himself in the spotlight once again. The Mumbai Police arrested Khan on Saturday for making communal remarks in a Facebook Live video, where he insinuated that Muslims are responsible for any incident and alleged that the BJP planned a premeditated scheme to harm them.

During his Facebook Live video on April 18, 2023, Khan made an unequivocal statement that if an ant dies, a Muslim is responsible, and if an earthquake occurs, a Muslim is also responsible. These remarks led to instant backlash from the law enforcement.

Arrest and Charges

The Mumbai Police has invoked Sections 153A, 117, and 121 of the Indian Penal Code against Khan. The case was registered at the Khar Police Station on charges of defamation, hate speech, and violation of prohibitory orders. Additionally, the arrest was confirmed by ANI, another media outlet, highlighting the severity of the charges.

A Comic History of Controversies

Azam Khan is no stranger to controversies, having sparked numerous conflicts with his remarks over the years. As a member of the Lok Sabha, his first stint in the House was marked by heated debates and accusations of sexism.

Inciting Communal Hatred and Feminist Backlash

On April 18, Khan was not only arrested for his inflammatory remarks but also for inciting communal tensions. His Facebook Live video was lambasted by various political parties, particularly the BJP, which demanded an apology or action against him for making sexist remarks on BJP MP Ram Devi. The tone of this incident emphasizes the tenuous balance between political freedom of speech and civil rights.

Previous Incidents and Political History

Azam Khan's controversial history spans over three decades. He has been in the eye of a storm for his sexist remarks in Parliament and numerous provinces, including Uttar Pradesh, during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. The Election Commission of India banned him from campaigning for over 72 hours in 2019 for his misogynistic remarks against Jaya Prada.

Significant Incidents and Remarks

One of the most controversial moments in Azam Khan's career was when he compared Jaya Prada to Alauddin Khilji in 2018, a remark that sparked a heated debate. Khan, while addressing a gathering in Rampur, made a derogatory statement about her clothing, which led to an FIR being filed against him.

Another memorable event was in 2018, when he notoriously said, "Don't worry about the Rampur DM. After winning the elections, I will make him clean Mayawatiji's sandals," reflecting his contentious relationship with local administrations.

Political Career and Controversies

His political career, beginning as part of the Janta Dal, then moving through the Lok Dal and Janata Party, eventually led to his expulsion from Mulayam Singh Yadav's party in 2009. His son Abdullah Azam Khan is currently a Suar Rampur MLA from the Samajwadi Party, and his wife, Tazeen Fatima, is an SP Rajya Sabha member.

Critical Poll Campaign Remarks

During the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Azam made several derogatory and controversial remarks. He argued that the nation should not hand over power to a 'murderer' and accused leaders of the ‘forcible’ sterilization during the Emergency period. Such remarks further raised eyebrows and the Election Commission banned him for the entire poll season.

Conclusion

The recent arrest of Azam Khan highlights the ongoing tensions in politics and society. While freedom of speech is a cherished right, the misuse of social media platforms to incite communal hatred can have severe legal and social repercussions.

Keywords: Azam Khan, hate speech, communal remarks