Political tensions rise as Congress backs Ansari, while BJP issues strong response
Team Clarion
RANCHI — Jharkhand Health Minister Dr Irfan Ansari has sparked a fresh political controversy by issuing a strong warning to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Speaking at an educational awareness conference in Jamtara on February 20, Dr Ansari criticised Yogi Adityanath’s remarks on the Urdu language and advised him to ‘stay within limits.’ The statement has intensified political debates, with the Congress supporting Ansari and the BJP responding with sharp criticism.
While addressing the gathering in Narayanpur, Jamtara, Dr Ansari took offence at Yogi Adityanath’s alleged statement linking Urdu with religious identity. He said, “Yogi says that studying Urdu makes one a Maulvi, a Kath Mullah. I warn him to stay within limits. We may be from Jharkhand, but we will not stay silent.”
Dr Ansari further criticised the UP Chief Minister, saying, “Speak after thinking, speak after weighing your words. If you speak too much, we will take you from Uttar Pradesh and admit you to a mental asylum in Kanke. Remember, there is a mental asylum in Kanke.”
The Congress party has stood by Dr Ansari’s remarks, arguing that Yogi Adityanath should be held accountable for his statements. Jharkhand Congress media in-charge Rakesh Sinha said, “Instead of criticising Dr Irfan Ansari, BJP leaders should advise Yogi Adityanath. If they have the courage, let them tell him to refrain from making disrespectful comments. This country is built on different languages, cultures, and dignity. If anyone speaks against a language, Congress will not remain silent.”
The BJP has reacted sharply to Dr Ansari’s remarks, calling them unacceptable. Jharkhand BJP spokesperson Avinash Kumar Singh warned, “First step near the Uttar Pradesh border and then speak. Yogi Adityanath is the first choice of Sanatan Dharma followers across the country. Such comments against him will cost Dr Irfan Ansari dearly.”
Dr Ansari also emphasised that Urdu is not tied to any specific religious community but serves as a unifying language. He stated, “Urdu is not the language of any one caste or community. It is a language that connects society. Leaders across the world favour Urdu, and there is no country where Urdu is not spoken. You may insult us, but disrespecting Urdu will not be tolerated.”
