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Planned Valentine's Day Morals Policing Stirs Controversy In India

By Howard M. Friedman

In India, controversy has erupted over renewed morals policing by members of the right wing Hindu nationalist group Sri Ram Sena. (Background). Last month in Mangalore, some 40 members of the group attacked women at a pub, slapping them and pulling their hair, claiming they were engaged in obscene dancing and were violating traditional Indian values. (Sindh Today.) Now the group's morals enforcers plan to take on young couples expressing their affection on Valentine's Day.

The Australian reported yesterday that Sri Ram Sena leader Pramod Muthalik announced that his followers will be patrolling the streets on Valentine's Day, and any couple they find publicly expressing their love will be taken to the nearest Hindu Temple and forced to marry. The activists will carry a bridal necklace and turmeric paste used in wedding ceremonies and will be accompanied by a priest. Many are distressed with the Sri Ram Sena's activities. IANS reports today that civil liberties proponents are planning protests. Some will form Valentine Help Escort teams to counter Sri Ram Sena activities. The teams will hand over to police anyone assaulting couples on Valentine's Day. Others will carry chili spray to fight off troublemakers.

Full post as published by Religion Clause on February 08, 2009 (boomark / email).