A 16-second video capturing Muslim passengers performing namaz in the open baggage claim area of Kempegowda International Airport’s Terminal 2 has gone viral, igniting a political firestorm.
The footage, shared by a user on X, shows a group of individuals in prayer, with airport staff and an ambulance visible in the background.The video, released earlier today, has drawn sharp criticism from BJP leaders, who accuse the Congress-led Karnataka government of minority appeasement and compromising airport security.
Despite the controversy, Bengaluru Airport offers multi-faith prayer rooms in both terminals, raising questions about why the prayer was conducted publicly rather than in designated spaces. The incident has fueled broader discussions on religious accommodations in Indian public infrastructure, with some viewing it as a breach of protocol, while others defend it as a reflection of religious freedom.
As of this afternoon, the video has amassed significant attention, with political leaders and social media users weighing in on the implications for airport security and communal harmony. The Karnataka government has yet to respond officially to the backlash.
