Mumbai Youth, Radicalised By Zakir Naik’s Teachings, Vandalises Secunderabad Temple; Arrested

Salman Salim Thakur, also known as Salman, a 30-year-old from Mumbra near Mumbai, Maharashtra, has been identified as the individual responsible for vandalizing an idol recently inside a Secunderabad temple, the IANS reported.

The incident, which happened early in the morning on October 14, led to Salman's capture by local residents who were alerted by the noise. Despite refusing to disclose his motives or personal details, Salman has been charged under several sections of the BNS at Market Police Station following his apprehension and subsequent hospitalization by the police.

The police's investigation into the matter uncovered that Salman arrived in Hyderabad earlier in the month to participate in a month-long personality development workshop. This workshop was hosted by English House Academy at the Hotel Metropolis in Regimental Bazar, Secunderabad, under the coordination of Munawar Zama, Md. Kafeel Ahmed, and others.

However, it was discovered that the venue was rented illegally for the workshop, which had not been officially sanctioned. Actions are in place to address this issue with the hotel's management.

Salman's actions at the Sri Muthyalamma Temple in Kummarguda, which falls within the Market Police Station's jurisdiction, sparked outrage among locals who physically confronted him. The police statement detailed how community members, enraged by the deliberate and inflammatory nature of Salman's deed, prevented further damage to the sacred site.

The authorities were notified and swiftly responded, ensuring the accused received medical attention before formally charging him. Investigations into Salman's background reveal a concerning pattern of behavior and beliefs.

Salman, who holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science, is known to be active online, where he was influenced by controversial Islamic preachers, including the fugitive Zakir Naik. This exposure led to his self-radicalization, fostering a disdain for Hindu practices and beliefs.

It came to light that Salman had previously engaged in similar provocative actions in Mumbai, demonstrating a history of mocking and disrespecting Hindu traditions.

Last year, Salman disrupted a Ganesh Pandal by entering it with his footwear and openly ridiculed the practice of idol worship. Furthermore, on August 1, 2024, he desecrated an idol of Lord Shanker at the Sri Manokamana Siddhimahadeva Mandir, thereby insulting the Hindu faith.