Aziz Qureshi also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his followers to understand that unity was crucial to the well-being of the country.
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — Muslims in India should stand together with courage against the forces propagating Hindutva ideology, former governor of Uttar Pradesh Aziz Qureshi has said.
In an audio message issued on Monday, Qureshi said Indian Muslims should act with courage, bravery, self-confidence and organise themselves.
Qureshi is a senior Congress leader from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. He was elected a Lok Sabha member from Satna in 1984 and served as governor of Mizoram as well.
“It is essential for everyone, including Hindu fundamentalists, Hindutva activists and those who may wish to undermine the identity of Indian Muslims, to understand that Muslims will not tolerate any form of oppression. If some Hindu fundamentalists believe they can marginalise Muslims from Indian society as has happened in history, it is merely wishful thinking,” the former governor was quoted by media reports as saying.
Over the centuries, he said, Indian Muslims have contributed significantly to the nation’s growth and prosperity. “Our hard work, honesty and dedication have enriched every corner of this land. We have protected its borders, expanded its boundaries, and elevated its name on the global stage”, he said.
“Let us dispel any notion of animosity between communities. Indian Muslims are loyal to this land, committed to peace and harmony, and pose no threat to anyone. We abhor violence and will not resort to any form of “Jihad.” However, if our self-respect, honour, customs, or the Qur’an are targeted, we will respond firmly,” he maintained.
Qureshi also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his followers to understand that unity was crucial to the well-being of the country. “Discussions about “Urban Naxalism” distract us from the real challenges that require our attention”, the former governor was quoted as saying.
