New Delhi: Senior opposition leaders criticised recent remarks on so called love jihad and accused ruling groups of targeting minorities through divisive statements. The comments followed a speech by the RSS chief during a programme in Bhopal, where he urged families to prevent such relationships.
Assam Assembly Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia said the BJP and RSS function as a single political force. He accused them of insulting and harming minority communities. He said such statements violate constitutional values and promote one religion over others. Saikia stressed respect for the Constitution and said legal institutions should act independently. He urged people not to attach importance to remarks which go against constitutional principles.
Congress leader Rashid Alvi rejected the existence of love jihad in India. He said such claims aim to provoke Hindu sentiment. Alvi argued interfaith marriage between consenting adults falls within constitutional rights. He questioned action against Muslim leaders within the BJP if such marriages were labelled wrongdoing.
Congress MP Tariq Anwar echoed similar concerns. He said the Constitution protects personal choice in marriage. He warned communal framing of personal relationships spreads hatred and misleads society. He described the remarks as an attempt to divert public attention.
AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi demanded evidence. He asked ruling groups to present data in Parliament if such cases exist. He called for a clear definition and records from states under BJP rule. Owaisi said adult decisions require no approval from others. He added national priorities include employment for youth rather than polarising debates.
Opposition leaders framed the issue as one of constitutional rights, minority safety, and responsible public discourse. They urged focus on governance and social harmony rather than unverified claims.
