New Delhi: In a scenario where politically charged remarks have become commonplace, a recent comment by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again sparked a heated debate across India’s political landscape. Speaking at the inauguration of an airport in Hisar, Haryana, Modi suggested that if Waqf properties were utilized honestly, young Muslims would not need to rely on repairing punctures to earn a living. This statement, aimed at addressing the misuse of Waqf properties, has ignited sharp responses from opposition leaders who view it as insensitive and dismissive.
At the heart of the controversy is the issue of Waqf properties, which are meant for charitable or religious purposes under Islamic law. Prime Minister Modi claimed that only land mafias have benefited from these properties, while the poor and marginalized communities have been deprived of their due benefits. The Prime Minister’s critics argue that his remark not only overlooks the broader socio-economic challenges faced by young Muslims but also deflects attention from the government’s role in addressing these issues.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi was among the first to respond, questioning the effectiveness of Modi’s government in improving the lives of the poor, both Hindus and Muslims, over the past 11 years. Owaisi also highlighted the weakness of Waqf laws, suggesting that Modi’s recent amendments could further exacerbate existing problems.
Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi took a strong stance against the Prime Minister’s choice of words, likening them to the kind of language used by trolls on social media. He pointed out the absence of jobs as a significant issue for youth across communities and criticized the BJP for lacking Muslim representation in key roles.
Additionally, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate raised questions about the Prime Minister’s tribute to BR Ambedkar, the architect of India’s Constitution, on his birth anniversary. She also challenged the BJP to demonstrate its commitment to Dalit empowerment by appointing a Dalit Chief Minister.
The controversy comes against the backdrop of the recently passed Waqf Amendment Bill, which faced opposition from Congress and other parties. The BJP maintains that the Bill aims to improve the management of Waqf properties, but critics see it as an attempt to undermine Muslim interests.
Prime Minister Modi also accused the Congress of engaging in appeasement politics, claiming that this approach has not only failed to benefit Muslims but has also left society uneducated and poor. However, opposition leaders argue that such rhetoric serves only to divide communities rather than address the root causes of their challenges.
