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A video showing a group offering namaz inside Bengaluru airport’s Terminal 2 has sparked a major row. BJP questions how prayers were allowed in a high-security zone and accuses the Siddaramaiah government of double standards. Will the state act?
Namaz at Bengaluru airport
Bengaluru: A fresh political row erupted in Karnataka after a video surfaced allegedly showing a group of people offering namaz inside Terminal 2 of Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. The incident, though undated, drew sharp criticism from the state BJP, which questioned how such a religious activity was permitted within a high-security airport zone.
BJP spokesperson Vijay Prasad led the charge, demanding clarification from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and IT Minister Priyank Kharge on whether permission was granted for the act.
“Did these individuals obtain prior approval to offer Namaz in a high-security airport zone?” he asked on X, while sharing a photo and video of the incident.
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Prasad further alleged that the Congress government in Karnataka displays selective tolerance when it comes to public religious practices. He compared the incident to instances where, according to him, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is denied permission to hold Patha Sanchalana (route marches) despite following due process.
“Why is it that when RSS seeks permission, objections are raised, but when prayers are offered without authorization in restricted areas, the government turns a blind eye?” he questioned. The BJP leader also termed the incident a “potential security lapse,” noting that the airport is a sensitive installation governed by strict aviation and security protocols.
As of now, the Siddaramaiah government has not issued any official statement regarding the controversy. Authorities at the Kempegowda International Airport have also not clarified whether any formal permission was sought or granted. The video, which is circulating widely on social media, appears to have been recorded by a bystander, and shows a small group of individuals praying in a corner of the terminal.
While BJP leaders have demanded immediate action, officials are yet to confirm the authenticity and timing of the footage. The controversy, however, has added to the ongoing political friction between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP in Karnataka.
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This incident has reignited the long-standing debate over offering namaz in public or semi-public places. Similar controversies have surfaced in other parts of India, where prayers conducted in open spaces like roads, parks, or public offices have triggered discussions around religious freedom, public order, and perceived political bias.
Critics argue that public prayers in restricted or high-security areas may raise logistical and security concerns. Supporters, however, view such objections as discriminatory, insisting that India’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and peaceful assembly.
As the debate intensifies, the Karnataka government faces growing pressure from the BJP to clarify its stand and ensure that security and neutrality are maintained in all public spaces, including critical zones like airports.
