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This article delves into the complex phenomenon of Lawrence Bishnoi, a notorious gangster currently imprisoned in India, and the unexpected wave of admiration and support he has garnered on social media. Despite his criminal history, Bishnoi has been elevated to the status of a 'Hindu hero' and 'patriot' by a growing online brigade, raising concerns about his influence and the potential for further violence.
Bishnoi's online supporters come from diverse backgrounds, including BJP-linked users, journalists, and educators. They present him as a defender of Hindu values, drawing parallels between him and underworld dons Dawood Ibrahim and Chhota Rajan, who were once lauded as 'patriotic gangsters.' They glorify his alleged actions, often framing them as necessary to 'keep Muslims in check' or protect Hindu interests.
The article details numerous examples of Bishnoi's online supporters praising his actions, claiming he is a 'revolutionary youth' and 'deshbhakt (patriot).' They also make disturbing suggestions for potential targets of Bishnoi's gang, including actor Salman Khan and politician Mamata Banerjee, highlighting the growing concern about his real-world impact.
Beyond the overt praise, the article sheds light on the underlying fears and narratives being used to cultivate support for Bishnoi. Supporters exploit the fear of Muslim extremism and a perceived threat to Hindu identity to justify Bishnoi's actions, effectively blurring the lines between crime and a supposed fight for a Hindu cause. This raises serious concerns about the normalization of violence and the exploitation of social media platforms to spread divisive narratives.
Source: BJP workers, journalists, educators: Meet Lawrence Bishnoi’s online PR brigade