Based on Data: BJP MLA Clarifies ‘Muslims Steal Electricity’ Jibe

In a recording that went viral, Gupta could allegedly be heard saying 90% Muslims indulged in electricity theft.

(Photo: ANI)

Hours after his statement linking Muslims to electricity theft received backlash, Sanjay Gupta, the BJP MLA from Uttar Pradesh’s Kaushambi attempted to clarify his statement.

In an earlier audio recording that went viral, the MLA could allegedly be heard saying that as many as 90 percent Muslims were involved in stealing electricity, calling for action against them.

Soon after he faced tremendous flak for his statement, Gupta scrambled to clarify by saying that the electricity department should conduct raids sans any discrimination on religious grounds.

He also added that his earlier statement had been based on the data that was provided to him. Speaking to ANI, Gupta said:

What I said to officials was that it’s good that you go to houses of Hindus, but you should also go to houses of Muslims. It’s based on latest data provided to me. No differences between electricity board and me.

He added that the people of Bharwari town had accused him of not conducting inspection against “the people of a particular community,” and that it was his duty to address the people’s issues.

(With inputs from ANI.)