Unknown miscreants burn Lord Hanuman's flag in Bihar's Gaya
Gaya, Bihar, India 
5 May, 2024
Case Summary
Bihar's Gaya Police confirmed the arrest of an individual involved in burning a Hindu religious flag, an incident that occurred in early May in a village under Mufassil Police Station. The case gained attention after a video went viral, showing several miscreants burning a flag bearing the image of Lord Hanuman. On May 23, Gaya Police responded to a social media post demanding action, confirming the arrest and ongoing investigation. An FIR was registered on May 6 against four individuals for hurting Hindu religious sentiments. Following this, the police conducted raids, but the accused initially absconded. The video was shared by an X user, Vanar Sena, who urged the police to take swift action. SSP Ashish Bharti mentioned that the video was promptly investigated, leading to the identification of the suspects with the help of local watchmen and public representatives. Despite the initial evasion, the police continued their efforts, resulting in at least one arrest.
Why it is Hate Crime ?
Icons and symbols or a religious representation of a spiritual ideal are widely revered in Hinduism. Iconography is of vital significance in the Hindu milieu. It helps connect people’s spiritual beliefs with the real world. Iconography within the Hindu faith takes several shapes and forms. Murtis are of most significance to Hindus, to which daily rituals, prayers and offerings are done. Besides the murtis, there are several other symbols which have deep significance in the Hindu faith – the Om and Swastika for example. Since these Hindu religious symbols hold paramount importance in Hinduism, any desecration of symbols, icons, murtis, religious representations and manifestations, is driven by animosity towards the faith itself which manifests itself through these murtis, icons and symbols. Therefore, any desecration of these Hindu religious symbols and representations is considered religiously motivated hate crimes under this category. The Hanuman flag is a revered symbol in Hinduism, representing Lord Hanuman. The Hanuman flag is not merely a piece of cloth but a symbol of faith and devotion. Its desecration can deeply hurt the religious sentiments of devotees. In this case, some unknown miscreants burnt a Hanuman flag, underscoring the deep-rooted hatred the accused harboured towards Hinduism. Furthermore, it is important to mention here that though the last update was that the miscreants were unknown, regardless, the action stemmed out of hatred against Hinduism and resulted in the desecration of the sacred temples and would therefore be considered a religiously motivated hate crime.
Case Status
Case sub-judice
Perpetrators Details
Perpetrators
Muslim Extremists
Perpetrators Range
From 2 To 5
Perpetrators Gender
male
Sources 
