Mumbai, March 27 (NationPress) As the BJP initiated a nationwide outreach campaign titled ‘Saugat-e-Modi’ directed towards economically disadvantaged Muslim families ahead of Eid, Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA Abu Azmi expressed vehement disapproval, arguing that the distribution of 32 lakh kits would not truly bring happiness to Muslims.

Azmi emphasized that genuine joy for Muslims would stem from the release of innocent individuals currently imprisoned before Eid.

In a conversation with IANS, Abu Azmi stated: “The distribution of 32 lakh kits will not provide happiness to the underprivileged Muslim community. True happiness will be achieved when the innocent Muslims, who are wrongfully detained, are freed prior to Eid. If you had allowed them to return home and celebrate Eid with their loved ones, I would have regarded that as a real gift. If you genuinely wish to offer a gift, it should be the rights bestowed upon Muslims by the Constitution of Bhimrao Ambedkar, ensuring that each individual receives their fair share according to their population. If you had accomplished that, I would acknowledge it as a gift.”

Azmi further criticized the BJP, alleging that this initiative was a strategy to sway Muslims ahead of the forthcoming Bihar elections. He asserted that the outreach program was merely an attempt to garner votes by appealing to the Muslim populace under the guise of welfare.

“It is unsurprising that such initiatives emerge close to elections. With the Bihar elections approaching, it appears the BJP is trying to win over Muslims. They are attempting to seize Muslim lands, while the entire Muslim community opposes the amendments to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. The landowners resist changes, but the BJP is resolute in making amendments. What sort of gift is that? The real issue is that they are entering mosques, burning the Quran, and causing distress to Muslims,” Azmi stated.

He continued: “You’re presenting these so-called gifts, yet you won’t provide Muslims with even one minister, one MLA, or one MP. Such gifts are unnecessary. The real gift will be granting Muslims the rights promised to them by the Constitution. Only then would I genuinely consider it a gift, and I would appreciate it.”

Azmi also reacted to the strict guidelines recently issued by the Uttar Pradesh Police, which prohibited Namaz on roads and other public spaces. In Meerut, the police have advised Muslims to perform Namaz solely at designated mosques or other venues intended for mass prayers.

“What if the government decides tomorrow that we cannot pray? If we pray, they’ll threaten us with violence or incarceration. For centuries, people have prayed in public areas when mosques were small or overcrowded, even on roads beside gutters. Instead of harassing individuals for praying, the government should ensure they have suitable space to worship, clean the areas, and honor their right to practice their faith. It’s not about obstructing traffic; it’s about intentionally harassing Muslims,” he expressed, voicing concern over the rising restrictions on religious practices.

Azmi also commented on the recent uproar involving comedian Kunal Kamra, whose satirical remarks on social media have triggered protests and calls for a ban on his YouTube channel.

Azmi deemed the response disproportionate, especially in light of the lack of action against insults directed at Islam.

“Kunal Kamra’s comments regarding the Deputy Chief Minister were inappropriate, but we must recognize that when insults are directed at our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), no action is taken. Individuals like Salman Rushdie and Taslima Nasreen, who have authored defamatory works about Islam, receive protection under freedom of speech laws. Conversely, Kamra’s remarks have ignited widespread outrage, and there’s even a movement to ban his YouTube channel. This illustrates a blatant double standard. It highlights how democracy is being compromised in our nation,” Azmi concluded.