Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi criticized the Opposition on Thursday, accusing what he called the “feudal sultans of the so-called secular syndicate” of creating fear among Muslims, which he argues has led to their resistance to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He suggested that minorities, especially Muslims, should replace their “habit” of opposing the BJP with a “passion” for supporting it.
Naqvi made these remarks during the BJP Minority Morcha Membership Drive Workshop in Lucknow. He asserted that the BJP, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, does not discriminate in its development policies and that this inclusiveness should encourage electoral support from all communities. “We must work hard so that minorities and Muslims shift from their decades-old habit of opposing the BJP to a passion for supporting it. When the BJP does not discriminate against any section in terms of development, there should be no hesitation in voting for the party,” Naqvi stated.
He emphasized that building trust with these communities is essential. The former minority affairs minister also rejected the Opposition’s characterization of the BJP as “anti-Constitution,” calling it a feudal effort to “hide the mountain of truth under the bushes of lies.” He added, “Prime Minister Modi respects the temple of democracy, holds the Constitution dear, and is advancing the inclusive journey of good governance.”
Naqvi also defended the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Bill, arguing that the proposed legislation would establish “constitutional hierarchy over unconstitutional anarchy.” The bill aims to give the government a greater role in regulating Waqf properties and proposes changing the composition of Waqf Boards to include non-Muslim members.
The Opposition has strongly opposed the bill, and some BJP allies have privately expressed concerns, leading the government to refer it to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). The JPC is expected to submit its report by the next parliamentary session.
