‘The abuses being hurled at me today are not just against me — they are an insult to every woman in this region’, says Samajwadi Party lawmaker from Kairana
NEW DELHI —The pain and anguish of the Samajwadi Party lawmaker from Kairana in Uttar Pradesh, Iqra Hasan, was very much perceptible when epithets questioning her religion and patriotism were hurled at her by members of the Hindu Suraksha Seva Sangh in Chapaur village, Saharanpur, on Wednesday. The Hindutva supporters called her a “mulli” (derogatory word used to describe a Muslim woman) and a “terrorist”.
The hurtful words cut deep, echoing a familiar narrative of prejudice and Islamophobia. Unfortunately, Iqra wasn’t the first to face such humiliation. Kunwar Danish Ali, another Muslim leader, had endured similar taunts, highlighting the disturbing trend of intolerance. In September 2023, Kunwar Danish Ali faced similar humiliation in the Lok Sabha, where BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri made offensive remarks, including calling him a ‘terrorist’ and a ‘pimp’, without any action taken by Speaker Om Birla.
Iqra Hasan visited Chapaur village after a Shiv temple was vandalised, sparking protests by the Hindu Suraksha Seva Sangh. Instead of finding solace and support, she was met with vile abuse and derogatory language. The protesters’ slogans and words were a stark reminder of the deep-seated biases that still plague our society.
Iqra expressed strong displeasure, saying, ‘I was subjected to abuse and derogatory language, including being called a “mulli” and a terrorist, during the protest. “This is not just an insult to me, but an insult to all the women of our society.” She added that she would not be intimidated. “I will not do politics under pressure. Those who try to divide society will not be spared,” she said.
Speaking with villagers during her visit, Iqra said that everyone has the right to protest but the language used during the demonstration was unacceptable. “When I won the election, people of every religion and caste voted for me. The abuses being hurled at me today are not just against me — they are an insult to every woman in this region,” she said.
Iqra added, “I have never done politics based on religion or caste. I have always tried to take everyone along. If someone doesn’t like my work, they can vote me out after five years. But am I not your daughter?”
The MP also revealed that she had received a call from officials advising her not to visit Chapaur. “The administration told me not to go, but I said — this is my area, why shouldn’t I go? I am here not for politics, but to speak for the people,” she said.
She added that the Saharanpur SSP personally contacted her to file a complaint about the abusive remarks. “My religion, my community, and my responsibilities teach me to take everyone along,” Iqra said.
Despite the pain and anguish, Iqra Hasan stands strong, refusing to be intimidated or silenced. Her resilience is a testament to her courage and conviction. As she navigates the challenges of her role, Iqra Hasan’s voice will continue to matter, echoing the concerns and aspirations of her constituents. All eyes are on her now waiting to see if her strength and determination will inspire a more inclusive and compassionate discourse.
