In a strong statement, Samajwadi Party Maharashtra chief Abu Asim Azmi condemned Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane for his controversial call asking Hindus to inquire about the religion of shopkeepers before making purchases. Azmi urged both the state and central governments to take immediate action against Rane, accusing him of repeatedly undermining the Constitution, reported the Clarion India.
Speaking to IANS, Azmi said, “If an ordinary citizen made such a remark, it would be treated as a crime. But when a minister persistently speaks against constitutional values, there’s no accountability.”
The controversy flared after the recent attack in Pahalgam, following which Rane made his divisive statement. Expressing deep concern, Azmi emphasized that such remarks threaten India’s secular fabric.
“India’s Constitution grants equal rights to Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians alike. Every citizen must be treated with fairness and dignity,” he stressed.
He pointed out that Muslims across the country had unequivocally condemned the Pahalgam attack. “If a minister makes communal statements, there should be firm action against him too,” Azmi asserted, urging the Chief Minister and Prime Minister to intervene.
Highlighting the potential social and economic consequences, Azmi said, “Nearly 25 percent of the country’s revenue comes from Indians working in Gulf countries, most of whom are Muslims. Does the government want to jeopardize that too?”
Azmi also referenced the compassion shown by Kashmiri locals toward Hindu pilgrims during the Pahalgam incident, stating, “Hindus who returned from Kashmir praised the love and sacrifices of the local people. Such unity must not be forgotten.”
He accused Rane and similar politicians of exploiting communal sentiments for political gains. “This is pure vote-bank politics. Humanity must come before electoral interests,” he said.
Calling for an end to divisive rhetoric, Azmi concluded, “People who spread hatred are nothing but separatists in disguise. They must not be given public platforms.”
