Telangana Government Shortens Work Hours for Ramzan: Responses from Congress and AIMIM
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Synopsis
The Telangana government has decided to allow Muslim employees to leave work an hour earlier during Ramzan, eliciting mixed reactions from political parties. While the BJP criticized the move as appeasement, Congress and AIMIM welcomed the decision, calling for similar measures to support all religious practices across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- Telangana allows early exit for Muslims during Ramzan.
- Mixed political reactions with Congress and AIMIM supporting.
- BJP condemns it as appeasement politics.
- Calls for similar measures for all religions.
- Work hour changes effective from March 2 to March 31.
New Delhi, Feb 18 (NationPress) The Telangana government’s recent decision to permit Muslim employees to exit work an hour early during the month of Ramzan has sparked a variety of reactions from the political arena. The BJP criticized it as a tactic of appeasement, while others praised the initiative and called for similar policies to be adopted nationwide.
In a discussion with IANS, Congress leader TS Singh Deo highlighted the significance of respecting religious customs, advocating for such accommodations for all religious festivals, not limited to just Ramzan.
“There’s no harm in it,” he remarked.
“It’s a step towards ensuring that everyone can observe their religious practices, whether it’s for Muslims, Hindus, or others.”
Maharashtra Congress MLA Amin Patel also endorsed the Telangana government’s decision, urging that such allowances be expanded to encompass all faiths across the nation.
“Ramzan is a sacred month for the Muslim community. This initiative is vital, and it should be implemented nationwide,” he stated.
AIMIM leader Waris Pathan defended the decision, criticizing the BJP for their opposition.
“It’s just one hour for Muslims to break their fast, and the BJP is making a fuss over it,” he asserted.
“Why is there a problem with giving them just one hour? This is an example of hate and intolerance.”
While Congress and AIMIM have praised the move, the BJP has condemned it, accusing the Congress-led Telangana government of engaging in “appeasement politics.”
BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya took to X to label the decision 'tokenism,' arguing that similar considerations for Hindus during Navratri or other religious occasions are never provided.
The work hours adjustment will commence on March 2 and continue until March 31.
Throughout the month-long Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from food and drink during daytime hours.
The fast is concluded each day with prayer and a celebratory meal known as 'iftar'. Visiting family and friends after iftar is a customary practice.
