VHP Files Writ Petition in Calcutta HC Against Naming Lion & Lioness as Akbar and Sita
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 23rd Feb. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Uttar Banga Prant, West Bengal, has taken rapid legal action by filing a writ petition in the Honorable Calcutta High Court’s circuit bench in Jalpaiguri. The petition is in response to a recent incident that has sparked outrage within the Hindu community – the naming of a lion and lioness as “Akbar” and “Sita,” respectively.
Expressing deep anguish over the matter, the VHP demands stern action against what they perceive as anti-Hindu conspirators and immediate renaming of the species.
In their writ petition filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India (case No. WPA 360 of 2024), the VHP contends that the naming of the lioness “Sita” has caused immense hurt to Hindu sentiments. The lioness, originally identified as IL 25, arrived at Bengal Safari Park, Salugara, as part of an animal exchange program sponsored by the Central Zoo Authority.
Despite protests and petitions, including a deputation submitted to the Director of North Bengal Wild Animals Park, the lioness was still named “Sita,” sparking widespread outrage.
The petitioners argue that naming an animal after a revered religious deity is sacrilegious and offensive, violating the religious beliefs of Hindus. They assert that such actions by authorities are arbitrary, unreasonable, and infringe upon the constitutional rights of Hindus.
The VHP urges the court, through the writ petition, to take immediate action, including changing the lioness’s name to a non-religious one and directing authorities to refrain from using religious names for animals in zoological parks.
The writ petition has been submitted before the Court and is scheduled for hearing on February 20, 2024.
The VHP emphasizes its commitment to justice and respect for religious sentiments, calling for stern action against all those involved in the naming of the species.
The outcome of the court’s deliberations will be awaited with keen interest as the debate over the intersection of religious beliefs and conservation efforts continues.
VHP Files Writ Petition in Calcutta HC Against Naming Lion & Lioness as Akbar and Sita
