New Delhi, Nov 9 (NationPress) The Chief of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), Asaduddin Owaisi, has criticized RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav for labeling him an extremist, stating that such remarks reflect his “mentality” and “hatred”.

In an interview with IANS, Owaisi asserted that Yadav should recognize that his comments, especially after serving as Deputy Chief Minister for four years, indicate a flawed mindset.

While campaigning across Bihar’s Seemanchal region, Owaisi criticized both the state and central governments for their lack of development, accusing opposing parties of fostering hatred and discrimination. He also addressed questions regarding alliances, communal politics, and the hurdles faced by Muslims and other marginalized groups in the area.

Here is the complete interview:

IANS: Rahul Gandhi has been vocal about accusing the BJP of corruption. As you tour various parts of Bihar, what issues stand out to you?

Owaisi: Numerous issues plague Bihar, particularly in the Seemanchal region, characterized by underdevelopment, discrimination, and hostility towards the local populace. Residents here are often branded as infiltrators. The region experiences frequent flooding and land erosion, yet lacks adequate compensation. The education system is failing, healthcare has deteriorated, and corruption is rampant. These are pressing challenges.

IANS: Tejashwi Yadav referred to you as an extremist. What would you say if Muslims continue to support him?

Owaisi: Voting is a fundamental right for all. Tejashwi must understand that making such remarks after his tenure as Deputy Chief Minister reveals his mindset. His statements are steeped in hatred, perceiving individuals with beards and topis as extremists. The public is observing his actions.

IANS: You often articulate your views on faith, whereas leaders like Tejashwi Yadav and Rahul Gandhi tend to avoid such discussions. Why is that?

Owaisi: I will continue to speak in the name of the One for whom we perform our charitable acts. If we remain silent, who will voice these concerns? Our faith is central to our identity as Muslims, as taught by Muhammad, who emphasized that Allah is One.

IANS: In some constituencies in Bihar, your party is collaborating with the BSP. Will this partnership extend to Uttar Pradesh?

Owaisi: It’s not BSP; we are aligning with the Azad Samaj Party led by Chandrashekhar Azad. We are working together with Swami Prasad Maurya as part of the GDA alliance we have formed.

IANS: Between Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav, who do you perceive as a true supporter of Muslims?

Owaisi: Comparing records during their tenures, both Behenji (Mayawati) and Akhilesh Yadav have faced scrutiny. The Muzaffarnagar riots stand out, displacing approximately 50,000 Muslims, with many atrocities committed. While I provided aid during those camps, Akhilesh Yadav was preoccupied with entertainment in Saifai. The genocide in Muzaffarnagar occurred during his administration. Akhilesh speaks of M-Y (Muslim-Yadav), but he primarily serves Y. In contrast, Behenji is a self-made politician.

IANS: Recently, Afzal Ansari criticized you. How do you respond?

Owaisi: What insight do they possess regarding our efforts in Hyderabad? They mistakenly believe we don’t work for Hindus. Ignorance clouds their judgment. Our party comprises MLAs who have humble beginnings; my office remains open for dialogue five days a week, welcoming many Hindu brothers and sisters, especially Dalits. They overlook this reality. His political journey—from the Communist Party to Ekta Dal, then to Behenji and Akhilesh—is inconsistent. He needs to recognize that the Constitution guarantees the Right to Equality, which we strive to achieve.

IANS: What is your opinion on Tej Pratap Yadav as a leader?

Owaisi: The so-called M-Y (Muslim-Yadav) alliance, with Lalu Yadav and his wife as Chief Ministers, Tejashwi as Deputy Chief Minister for four years, and his brother as a minister, lacks unity even within their family. Their internal discord undermines their ability to serve the people of Bihar.