By TwoCircles.net staff reporter,
New Delhi: Muslim organizations have reacted sharply to BJP leader L K Advani’s statement that he is not against minorities but ‘minorityism.’ They said the statement affirms that no change has occurred in the mindset of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regarding minorities.
Although the BJP has realized the strength of Muslims, on account of which they are attempting to mislead the community through such unclear and political statements. Advani had given the statement while addressing a national minority women conference called by BJP Minority Front in the national capital.
Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) Maulana Jalaluddin Umri questioned, “What is ‘minorityism?” They are only indicating to curb Muslims’ interests.” JIH secretary Mujtaba Farooq said attempts were on since long to bring Muslims near to BJP but all this is merely a political gimmick and bears no relation with reality. He said, “Vajpayee remained a soft-liner, Advani remained a hardliner but now Advani is trying to be soft and hardliner instance has been delegated to Raj Nath Singh (BJP president).” He said although Muslims are not going to vote for BJP, they are attempting to mislead Muslims.
The Imam of Shahi Masjid of Fatehpuri Mufti Mohammad Mukarram Ahmad said Advani’s statement is contradictory. It only means that the minorities of the country should sit silently disrespected and lifeless. “He has no concern for Muslims’ well-being or sympathy and cooperation with them”, said Mufti Mukarram.
The spokesman for Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Abdul Hameed Nomani termed Advani’s statement as an attempt to change their image. He said the BJP has now come to realize that their political dreams will not be materialized unless Muslim minority supports them.
Commenting on Advani’s slogan “only one talking about national interest will rule the country”, the ex-general secretary of Jamiat Ahl-e-Hadees Maulana Abdul Wahhab Khilji said Muslims always speak for national interests and believe in accompanying majority but also keep reminding them of their lapses.
A member of All India Muslim Personal Law Board Dr. Qasim Rasool Ilyas said the very statement of Mr. Advani smacks of opposition to minorities and their progress. He said opposition to ‘minorityism’ implies opposing the plans and programs designed for the benefit of the minorities.