- By Imran Zafar
- Sun, 15 Dec 2024 10:08 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Opposition MPs launched a scathing critique of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during a Lok Sabha session on Saturday, accusing the government of fostering discrimination against Muslims. The debate, held to mark 75 years of the Constitution’s adoption, saw leaders from various parties alleging a systematic erosion of secularism and constitutional values under the PM Narendra Modi-led NDA government. From concerns over political representation and religious freedoms to instances of violence and hate speech, the Opposition underscored the plight of Muslim minorities in India.
Asaduddin Owaisi Highlights Marginalization Of Muslim Community
Asaduddin Owaisi, leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), delivered a pointed speech, emphasising the historical and ongoing marginalization of Muslims. ''The success of parliamentary democracy is measured by the protection of fundamental rights,'' Owaisi stated, delving into Articles 15 and 16 of the Constitution, which prohibit discrimination and ensure equal opportunity. He argued that Muslims, despite suffering historical injustices, have been excluded from reservations.
Addressing Article 25, Asaduddin Owaisi criticised restrictions on Muslim women wearing hijabs in government institutions and highlighted lynching incidents over dietary practices. “Sabir Malik was lynched over false allegations of beef consumption,” he said. He also questioned ongoing surveys of mosques, stating, “If a structure found under Parliament belongs to me, does it become mine?”
The Hyderabad MP also accused the government of targeting Waqf properties, citing Article 26, which guarantees religious communities the right to manage their affairs. He concluded by lamenting the erosion of Urdu and the BJP’s “Hindutva cultural nationalism,” which he argued diverges from India’s pluralistic ethos.
'Muslims Being Made Second-Class Citizens': Akhilesh Yadav
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the BJP of reducing Muslims to second-class citizens. ''Their properties are being looted, they are being killed, their houses demolished and their places of worship seized with administrative support,'' he said. Akhilesh Yadav also cited the Uttar Pradesh Assembly by-election in Meerapur, where police allegedly intimidated Muslim voters.
Highlighting Article 14, which ensures equality before the law, Akhilesh Yadav said, “If a saffron-clad individual abuses someone, they face no consequences. But those seeking justice are beaten. Is this not a violation of Article 14?” He also criticized the government’s neglect of backward classes and accused it of catering to the upper caste minority.
Priyanka Gandhi Condemns Police Action In Sambhal
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi recounted instances of police action against Muslims. Referring to the Sambhal incident, she said, “The father of Adnan and Uzair, a tailor, was killed in police firing while returning from his children’s school.” She added, “A 17-year-old boy told me he wants to fulfil his father’s dream of becoming a doctor. This aspiration is rooted in our Constitution.”
Priyanka also condemned the “environment of fear”, likening it to colonial rule. “People speaking truth face repression, reminiscent of the British era,” she said.
Iqra Chowdhary Slams 'Jungle Raj' In Uttar Pradesh
Samajwadi Party MP Iqra Hasan Chowdhary lambasted the Uttar Pradesh government for rising violence against Muslims. She highlighted instances of mob lynching, bulldozing homes despite court stays and hate speeches by right-wing leaders. “The silence of the BJP government on extra-judicial killings speaks volumes,” she said, urging accountability from political leaders and law enforcement.
Iqra Chowdhary criticised inflammatory remarks by leaders like Yati Narsinghanand and pointed out that even judiciary members have made communal statements. “This growing hostility against minorities reflects a dangerous trend,” she warned.
A Raja Critiques BJP's Historical Stance
DMK MP A Raja questioned the BJP’s claims of contributing to the Constitution’s making. “Show me one instance where the RSS or Hindu Mahasabha supported the Constitution,” he challenged. Raja accused the BJP of hypocrisy and underscored the secular foundations of the Constitution.
