Retired Director General of Police Chhattisgarh Mohammed Wazir Ansari criticised both BJP and so-called secular parties for failing to prioritise Muslim representation and welfare.
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – Retired Director General of Police (DGP) Chhattisgarh Mohammed Wazir Ansari has voiced deep concerns over absence of Muslims in the decision-making apparatus of the country. He said the community is unrepresented in the state governments despite its significant population in Assam, Gujarat, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh.
In a press release issued here, IPS officer of the 1984 batch Ansari highlighted the alarming trend where Muslims, constituting a substantial portion of the population, are notably absent from leadership roles in government. He emphasised the need for the Muslim community to understand and analyse the reasons behind this marginalisation.
Ansari pointed out that following recent elections in several states, Muslim representation in government formation processes was virtually non-existent. Notably, he cited the case of Telangana, a Congress-ruled state, where no Muslim has found a berth in the Cabinet. The situation remains similar in BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, he said.
Furthermore, Ansari lamented the absence of Muslim leadership in ministries for minority welfare, hinting at their potential closure and the cessation of welfare schemes. He criticised both BJP and so-called secular parties for failing to prioritise Muslim representation and welfare, treating the community merely as a vote bank.
Highlighting the plight of institutions related to the Muslim community, Ansari noted the prolonged vacancies in bodies such as the Madhya Pradesh State Minority Commission, Madhya Pradesh Waqf Board, and State Haj Committee. He stressed the urgent need for Muslims to unite, raise political and social awareness, and demand rightful representation in all levels of governance.
Expressing concern over the future of Muslims in India, Ansari urged the community to elect sincere leaders who prioritise their interests and rights. He warned against the consequences of continued marginalisation, emphasising the need for strong and inclusive leadership to safeguard the community’s identity and interests.
The absence of Muslim ministers at the centre and the prolonged vacancies in institutions related to the Muslim community underscore the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the issue of representation and ensure inclusive governance across all levels.