Attack on Chilkur temple priest highlights rising religious extremism: HRF

Religious extremists assaulting C.S. Rangarajan, head priest of Chilkur Balaji Temple.
| Photo Credit: Video Grab

The Human Rights Forum (HRF) has condemned the recent attack on C. S. Rangarajan, the head priest at the Chilkur Balaji Temple. The organisation described the incident as a worrying sign of rising religious extremism and a challenge to constitutional values and democracy. HRF criticised the attack, arguing that such incidents cannot be viewed merely from a religious or political perspective but must be seen as a direct threat to democracy and the rule of law. “It is unacceptable and barbaric to target a temple priest who has been carrying out his duties within the framework of the Constitution,” the HRF statement read.

The organisation also raised concerns over the unchecked rise of private militias under religious pretexts. “The fact that a uniformed private army could operate so openly, detain a priest in his own home, assault him, and then leave without facing immediate consequences raises serious questions about law enforcement and governance in this country,” HRF stated.

HRF drew parallels between the current rise of extremist factions and the mythological tale of Bhasmasurawarning that unchecked fanaticism could ultimately consume its own supporters.