Every Indian should strongly condemn the minister’s hateful statement, says AIMIM chief
Team Clarion
HYDERABAD — Union Minister of State for Home Bandi Sanjay Kumar is encouraging Islamophobia in India, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) President Asaduddin Owaisi said on Friday.
Owaisi was reacting to the controversy generated by the minister after the latter accused some madrasas of “fostering terrorism” and threatening national security.
Owaisi took to X and said: “This person is the MOS Home and makes a general sweeping statement against madrasas it shows the Honourable Minister’s mindset.”
The Hyderabad MP further said, “Every Indian should strongly condemn this hateful statement of MOS Home he is encouraging Islamophobia in India.”
Minister Kumar made the contentious remark during the inauguration of a girls’ hostel in Jammikunta, Karimnagar district. He claimed that certain madrasas are teaching students dangerous skills, going on to allege that they train individuals to use AK-47 rifles with broomsticks.
Kumar, a former Telangana BJP president, also criticised the state government for funding these institutions, suggesting they are involved in “promoting extremism.” He questioned the government’s decision to support these madrasas, though he did not provide evidence for his allegations.
Additionally, Kumar expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of funding for Shishumandir schools, which, he argued, “promote Indian Sanatana culture and traditions.”
He also took a shot at the Telangana government for not addressing the numerous vacant teaching and sanitation positions in state schools.
“It’s disappointing that there isn’t even a dedicated minister in charge of education,” Kumar remarked, calling the situation “regrettable.” His statements have sparked criticism and concerns about the potential for increased communal tensions.
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, a premier organisation of the country’s Muslims, also condemned Kumar’s remarks. “The remarks are not only baseless but an insult to the office the minister holds,” Jamiat chief Maulana Mahmood Asad Madani said on Thursday. He asserted that such comments reflect deliberate malice and Islamophobia, tarnishing the reputation of a ministry tasked with safeguarding the security and integrity of the country. He further expressed regret that a person with such divisive views holds a key government position, saying it is deeply troubling for the nation.
