NEW DELHI – The governments of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have permitted Muslim employees to leave work an hour early during Ramzan (March 2-30) to facilitate religious observances, a move that has sparked controversy. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly opposed the decision, terming it “appeasement politics.”
As per the official circular, Muslim employees—including teachers, contract staff, and public sector workers—are allowed to leave at 4 p.m. unless required for essential duties. BJP leader Raja Singh criticized the move, questioning why similar concessions are not granted during Hindu festivals.
Responding to the criticism, Congress leader Mohammed Ali Shabbir clarified that the policy is not new and has existed under previous governments, including the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) regime. He pointed out that similar accommodations are provided during Hindu festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Bonalu in Telangana.
Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar also slammed the decision, questioning why Hindu devotees observing ‘Ayyappa Deeksha’ are not given similar exemptions. Meanwhile, Telangana’s Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar held a review meeting on Ramzan preparations, emphasizing uninterrupted electricity, waste management, and essential services for the holy month.
A public interest litigation (PIL) was filed in the Supreme Court challenging the Telangana government’s decision, arguing that it violates Articles 14, 15, and 25 of the Indian Constitution. The PIL contended that granting religious-based exemptions could set a precedent for other communities seeking similar benefits, thereby impacting governance.
However, on March 7, a Supreme Court bench led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna declined to hear the petition, directing the petitioners to approach the respective High Courts under Article 226. Following this, the petitioner withdrew the plea with liberty to file it in the High Court.
The debate over religious accommodations in government policies continues, with political parties divided on the issue. While the BJP sees it as preferential treatment, the Congress government defends it as an inclusive approach to governance.
