Anjana Om Kashyap: In a significant development, an FIR has been filed against prominent journalist and Aaj Tak anchor Anjana Om Kashyap along with Aroon Purie, Chairman of the India Today Group. The case pertains to allegedly hurtful remarks made during a television broadcast that were seen as disrespectful towards Saint Valmiki, a revered figure among the Dalit community.
The complaint was lodged by Chaudhary Yashpal, national coordinator of the Bharatiya Valmiki Dharam Samaj (BHAVADHAS), an organization advocating for Dalit rights. Yashpal, a resident of Mohalla Ghati Valmiki in Ludhiana, has demanded strict legal action, including the immediate arrest of Anjana Om Kashyap, and a public apology for her statements aired on a national platform.
According to reports, the controversial remarks were made during a debate on Aaj Tak, where Anjana Om Kashyap allegedly made comments perceived as derogatory to the legacy and dignity of Saint Valmiki. The tone and choice of words used by the anchor during the show sparked outrage among members of the Valmiki community and Dalit organizations across the country.
As per the official FIR, the case has been registered under:
This legal action underscores the growing demand for responsible journalism, especially when dealing with sensitive religious and caste-related topics.
Ludhiana Police Commissioner Swapan Sharma confirmed that the FIR was registered after taking proper legal counsel. He added that over 13 Dalit and Scheduled Caste organizations had submitted complaints against the content aired on Aaj Tak. According to the police, the language used in the broadcast was found to be “inappropriate and disrespectful.”
“The investigation will be carried out by an officer of DSP rank, as per the protocol laid down under the SC/ST Act,” said Inspector Gaganpreet Singh of Division Number 4 Police Station.
Chaudhary Yashpal of BHAVADHAS stated, “We demand a formal apology from Anjana Om Kashyap for her words that insulted Saint Valmiki. Not only that, but her arrest is essential to set an example that caste-based derogatory remarks will not be tolerated in any form, especially on national television.”
These sentiments were echoed across social media and by community leaders, who accused mainstream media of failing to understand or respect the deep cultural and religious values associated with figures like Valmiki Ji.
As of now, neither Anjana Om Kashyap nor the India Today Group has issued a formal statement regarding the FIR or the allegations made against them. The lack of response has further fueled outrage, with community leaders and rights groups demanding accountability from media organizations.
This incident once again brings to light the role of media in handling discussions around caste and religion in India. Activists argue that anchors must undergo better training and awareness to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. Casual or insensitive references to historical or religious figures can easily offend large sections of society and lead to unrest.
It’s not the first time media houses have come under fire for their handling of caste-sensitive issues. As highlighted in a recent editorial on TazaUpdate.com, the urgency to generate headlines should never come at the cost of social responsibility or factual accuracy.
The police investigation is currently underway, and legal procedures are being followed. If proven guilty, the accused could face serious consequences under the IPC and SC/ST Act. Meanwhile, Dalit organizations have warned of nationwide protests if swift and strict action is not taken.
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