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Recently, Salman Khan’s residence in Bandra, Mumbai, came under a horrific gun attack, with the intention of killing the Bollywood superstar. However, within 24 hours, the Mumbai Police apprehended the accused, revealing their sinister motive. In the aftermath of the shooting, politicians rushed to Khan’s home, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who met with Salman Khan and his father, Salim Khan, to assure them about the situation.
Addressing reporters outside Khan’s residence, Shinde made a controversial remark vowing action against the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, stating, “There is no gang (war) in Mumbai. The Underworld has no (place) in Mumbai. This is Maharashtra, this is Mumbai. We will finish this (Lawrence) Bishnoi (gang) so that no one dares to do such a thing.”
Shinde further assured enhanced security measures for Salman Khan and his family members, saying, “I have assured Salman Khan that the government stands behind him, and his safety is the government’s responsibility. The government will ensure that no one dares do such an act in Mumbai.”
However, Shinde’s statement has deeply offended the Bishnoi community, as he appeared to threaten the entire community by stating his intent to “finish” them. This comment has sparked outrage on social media, with users demanding an apology from the Chief Minister for his insensitive remarks.
One user wrote, “Before commenting on the entire Bishnoi community, you should look at the history of the Bishnoi community with Salman Khan and see how we have sacrificed our lives for plants and animals. What kind of language is this?”
Another user expressed disappointment, stating, “The statement by a Chief Minister to eradicate the entire Bishnoi community due to some controversies is a shameful incident.”
The Bishnoi community, established in the 15th century by Guru Jambheshwar, is known for its unwavering commitment to protecting the environment and all forms of life. With approximately 1.5 million members, the sect believes in the sanctity of life, shunning meat and avoiding felling living trees.
Spread mostly across hamlets in Rajasthan, the community draws inspiration from Amrita Devi, a Bishnoi woman killed in 1730 while trying to protect a khejari tree, now the state tree. According to legend, a local king in the desert state sent his men to cut wood to fuel cement lime kilns for building his palace, leading to Amrita Devi’s ultimate sacrifice.
The Bishnoi community’s deep reverence for nature and their willingness to lay down their lives in defense of the environment have earned them the title of India’s original eco-warriors. Shinde’s remarks, which seemed to target the entire community, have understandably sparked outrage and calls for an apology.
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