Begusarai: Union Minister Giriraj Singh reignited a divisive debate by comparing AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi to Mohammad Jinnah and suggesting that India’s ancestors erred by not sending all Muslims to Pakistan during Partition. Addressing reporters, Singh claimed that if such a move had been made, leaders like Owaisi would not exist today.
Singh alleged that abusive political discourse in India began with Rahul Gandhi, accusing the Congress leader of creating a culture that threatens national unity. He said Rahul Gandhi’s actions were aimed at destabilising the country and warned that slogans like “I love Muslim” or “I love Mohammad” risked provoking unrest in places such as Leh and Manipur.
The minister also criticised Priyanka Gandhi’s recent visit to Bihar, arguing that she had benefitted from the improved road infrastructure developed under the current government. He contrasted this with the previous administration, which he said left Bihar with pothole-ridden roads.
Turning to Congress politics, Singh accused Rahul Gandhi of using “indecent” language during a recent Congress Working Committee meeting. He alleged that abuse has become part of the Congress culture, undermining Bihar and the nation as a whole.
When asked about claims that Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan was awarded a national honour to secure Muslim votes, Singh dismissed the allegation, saying awards are decided by juries. He accused Congress and Lalu Prasad Yadav of long-standing Muslim appeasement while defending the independence of recent cultural recognitions.
