BJP and Shiv Sena Critique Telangana Government's Alleged Favoritism

Synopsis

The BJP and Shiv Sena have condemned the Telangana government's decision to allow Muslim employees early leave during Ramzan, labeling it as favoritism. Critics argue that this decision neglects Hindu festivals, calling for equal treatment for all communities. Congress leaders defend the move, emphasizing equal representation for both Hindus and Muslims.

Key Takeaways

BJP and Shiv Sena criticize Telangana's early leave policy for Muslims.
Accusations of appeasement politics arise from opposition leaders.
Congress defends the decision as equitable treatment for all religions.
Concerns raised about unequal recognition of Hindu festivals.
Political discourse continues on religious representation in government policies.

Hyderabad, Feb 18 (NationPress) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiv Sena have criticized the Telangana government for allegedly engaging in appeasement politics by allowing Muslim employees to leave work early during the sacred month of Ramzan.

“Appeasement politics at its peak,” remarked BJP MLA T. Raja Singh on the social media platform X.

“The Telangana government permits early leave for Ramzan but disregards Hindu festivals. It should be equal rights for everyone or none at all,” stated Singh, who represents the Goshamahal constituency in Hyderabad.

Continuing a tradition established during united Andhra Pradesh and under BRS leadership in Telangana, the Congress government released an order permitting Muslim employees to leave work early in the fasting month of Ramzan, starting in early March.

Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari issued an order on February 15, allowing Muslim employees to leave offices one hour early during the holy month.

“The government hereby permits all Government Muslim Employees/Teachers/Contract/Out-sourcing/Boards/Corporations and Public Sector employees in the State to leave their Offices/Schools at 4:00 p.m. during the Holy Month of 'RAMZAN' from 02-03-2025 to 31-03-2025 (both dates inclusive) to perform necessary prayers, except when their presence is required due to exigencies of services during this period,” states the Government Order.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena leader Shaina Chudasama Munot criticized the Congress government for engaging in appeasement politics.

“The Telangana government indulges in appeasement. We advocate for justice for all, not appeasement for a select few. Why cater to specific groups?” she questioned.

Vishva Hindu Parishad National Spokesperson Vinod Bansal also criticized the Telangana government, stating, "The Congress party is notorious for its policy of Muslim appeasement, relegating Hindus to second-class status. A circular from the Telangana government providing a one-hour relaxation for their employees during Ramadan is mere publicity. We challenge them to reveal if they have ever granted similar leave to Hindus for occasions like Karva Chauth, Durga Puja, or Navratri,” he stated.

However, leaders from the Congress party defended their decision. "Governments serve both Hindus and Muslims, not just one community. I encourage Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath to appreciate Telangana's decision, and hope that BJP-led governments in other states will follow suit,” said Congress leader Rashid Alvi.

"This is a commendable decision, acknowledging the fasting during Ramzan. It's a government rooted in the constitution, not one of hatred. Baba Saheb granted rights to all in the constitution, and they are exercising those rights, deserving of praise,” commented Arif Masood, Congress MLA in Madhya Pradesh.