Naseeruddin Shah's 'cow's death' comment takes political turn, BJP calls it 'PR stunt'

After Naseeruddin Shah spoke of the tense political climate in the country and how he fears for the safety of his children as “they have not received any religious education”, his comment has now become a point of debate between the opposition and ruling party.

His comment that the “death of a cow is being given more importance than the death of a police officer in some areas”, in reference to the recent Bulandshahar violence in which a police officer was killed by a mob -- has now been picked up by Congress and NCP. BJP, on the other hand, dubbed the actor’s views as an attempt to defame the government as part of a conspiracy ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Congress tweeted from its official handle in response: “#NaseeruddinShah we concur, do not fear the hate, fight it. #DaroMat”.

Add WION as a Preferred Source

BJP dismissed Shah's comments as a "PR stunt." "This is not a tolerance and intolerance debate. This is a PR stunt,” party spokesperson Sambit Patra said. Party MP Prahlad Patel added, "This country has given so much to actors like Shah...he earned name, fame and respect among Indians. Still, if he feels that this country is not safe, he should take a call and settle in the country of his choice.”