The display of Hamas leaders' images during a local festival procession in Kerala's Palakkad district has triggered widespread criticism. Banners depicted images of Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh, leaders of the terrorist group Hamas, labeled with 'Tharwadis, Thekke Bhagam' (meaning Ancestors, Southside).
A group of youngsters carried these banners on elephants during a parade. Held on Sunday evening as part of the annual 'Urs' festival in Thrithala, Palakkad, this procession was attended by more than 3,000 people. However, the showcasing of these disputed banners has stirred extensive discussion on social media.
Organizers Distance Themselves From Religious Affiliation
In response, the organizers of the Thrithala festival have distanced themselves from any religious affiliations. They clarified that the event was not related to any mosque but was part of the Thrithala festival, which included participation from various community groups.
Young children were seen holding images of Sinwar and Haniyeh during the parade. This quickly escalated into controversy, prompting many to question why such banners were permitted by the organizers.
Controversy at Kerala University
This incident follows a series of recent pro-Palestinian rallies in the state. In 2024, the annual youth festival of Kerala University also faced controversy when it was named 'Intifada,' a term associated with the Palestine-Israel conflict and used by Hamas.
