Chandigarh: In a decision that has ignited considerable debate, the Congress party has chosen to field Mamman Khan, a controversial sitting MLA currently accused in the Nuh riots case, for the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections. Khan’s involvement in the communal violence that erupted in July 2023 has been a focal point of contention.

Mamman Khan faces allegations of inciting the violence during the Nuh riots, which resulted in significant bloodshed and property damage. Despite these serious charges, the Congress party stands by Khan, arguing that the evidence against him is insufficient and that the case is politically motivated. Khan himself has consistently denied the accusations, asserting that they are an attempt to tarnish his reputation.

[July 2023] Congress MLA Mamman Khan warns Hindus for consequences if they organise yatra & invite Monu Manesar. Later a riot happened & many Hindu devotees were kiIIed in it.
He was booked under UAPA for his role in #NuhViolence & jailed.

He got ticket from INC again. Mohabbat… pic.twitter.com/RPAzMGRCWx

— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) September 7, 2024

The decision to nominate Khan has faced sharp criticism from rival political parties, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which questions the Congress’s choice. Last year, Khan was arrested by Haryana police following the state government’s acknowledgment of his involvement in the Nuh violence. The police had invoked the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against him and 62 others, accusing them of orchestrating attacks and inciting violence.

The riots, which began during a Hindu procession organized by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, led to multiple fatalities and extensive destruction. Reports indicate that Khan allegedly facilitated the distribution of funds to incite violence and used his WhatsApp groups to spread inflammatory messages.

The Nuh Superintendent of Police has stated that Khan played a significant role in the unrest, including allegedly paying people to attack the procession and incite chaos. The seriousness of the charges is reflected in the addition of UAPA provisions to the case, signaling the severe penalties Khan and others could face if convicted.

Wrestlers Join Congress While Farmers Protest Alleged Corruption in Haryana Ticket Allocation

Md Abbas Sentenced to Death for Rape and Murder of Minor Girl in West Bengal

Islamist Leader Muhammad Jasimuddin Rahmani Calls for Jammu and Kashmir Secession, Seeks Pakistan-Afghanistan Support