In a disturbing incident that underscores the growing threat to dissenting voices, activist Nazia Elahi Khan and her companions were attacked while traveling from Delhi to Maha Kumbh. Khan, who has been vocal about the challenges faced by ex-Muslims and the dangers of religious fundamentalism, reported that a group of Muslim men followed their car from Eta, eventually causing a crash that left a 19-year-old girl in the vehicle severely injured.
On the way to kumbh I have been targeted by peaceful community 🙏
Help me @myogioffice pic.twitter.com/ZP1cBKWBCZ— Nazia Elahi Khan (सनातनी) (@ElahiNazia1) February 24, 2025
This attack cannot be seen in isolation. Nazia Elahi Khan has long been targeted for speaking out against radical Islamism. She has faced death threats, been harassed online, and was even arrested in West Bengal on false blasphemy charges merely for expressing her views. The latest assault on her and her companions is a clear attempt to silence her through fear and intimidation.
That such an incident took place while she was on her way to Maha Kumbh is telling. The Kumbh, a sacred Hindu gathering, represents spiritual awakening and the reclaiming of Indic identity. Khan’s decision to attend, despite past threats, signals her defiance against religious coercion. But for radical elements, her mere existence outside their prescribed ideological box is unacceptable.
It is essential that this incident is not brushed aside as a mere road accident. The clear pattern of prior threats and targeted harassment suggests a premeditated attack. Law enforcement authorities must take swift and decisive action against those responsible. There should be no tolerance for such violent intimidation, especially when it endangers innocent lives.
Nazia Elahi Khan’s courage in standing up against religious fundamentalism should be applauded. No individual should have to live in fear for exercising their right to free speech and independent thought.