Owaisi calls Himanta Sarma 'tubelight' over 'hijab-clad PM' controversy
What's the story
All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi has slammed Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his remarks on the possibility of a hijab-clad woman becoming India's Prime Minister. The controversy started when Owaisi, while campaigning in Maharashtra, expressed hope that "a hijab-clad daughter will become the prime minister." He also emphasized that India's Constitution permits any citizen to hold the top post.
Counterclaim
Sarma's response to Owaisi's remarks
Sarma had responded to Owaisi's comments by saying that while anyone can become the Prime Minister, "India is a Hindu nation with a Hindu civilization." He added, "We strongly believe that the Prime Minister of India will always be a Hindu." This statement drew criticism from Owaisi, who called Sarma a "tubelight" for not understanding the Constitution.
Critique
Owaisi's criticism of Sarma's understanding of the Constitution
Owaisi stressed that India's Constitution, drafted by BR Ambedkar, is inclusive and doesn't restrict any religion or community from holding the office of Prime Minister, CM, or mayor. He said, "Sadly, some people neither understand the Constitution nor its spirit." Owaisi also compared Pakistan's constitution with India's to highlight the inclusivity in the latter.
Backlash
BJP leaders criticize Owaisi's remarks
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Nitesh Rane also reacted to Owaisi's comments, saying that "no woman wearing a hijab or burka can become the prime minister or mayor in Mumbai." He suggested that those with such aspirations should move to Pakistan. BJP spokesperson Prakash Reddy accused Owaisi of trying to revive communal tensions for political gains. "Once again, he wants to revive communal tensions and do politics only on a communal basis," Reddy was quoted as saying by ANI.
Global perspective
Singh highlights hijab-less Muslim leaders globally
BJP leader RP Singh jumped into the fray, pointing out that many Muslim women leaders globally don't wear hijabs. He also accused Owaisi of playing politics on this issue and asked him to bring a hijab-wearing leader from his party. "We expect him to first bring forward a leader from your own party who wears a hijab," Singh told the news agency.