Did AIMIM’s Shaukat Ali Spark Controversy with New Slogan?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Moradabad, Feb 9 (NationPress) AIMIM’s Uttar Pradesh president Shaukat Ali ignited debate with a provocative statement proposing a new slogan regarding family size: 'Hum Do, Hamare Do Darjan' (We two, our two dozen).
During a public meeting in Moradabad on Sunday evening, Ali, who leads the AIMIM in the state under Asaduddin Owaisi, made remarks linking population growth to community empowerment, eliciting strong reactions.
He revealed that he has eight children, while his elder brother has 16, and encouraged Muslims to expand their families. “We will urge all Muslims to have as many children as possible. When Allah provides, we should accept it. Some individuals are apprehensive about our population growth, but a larger population will fortify our nation,” he stated.
Ali drew parallels with China, asserting, “China has a larger population, which contributes to their strength. Therefore, if our numbers grow, our nation will be empowered. I advocate for ‘Hum Do, Hamare Do Dozen.’ Why should there be concerns about our population?”
He further expressed that he would also appeal to Hindus to increase their birth rates. “I will encourage Hindu brothers to have 14 children to strengthen our country,” he remarked.
Ali emphasized India's youthfulness, questioning the negative perception surrounding population growth: “Our nation is the youngest globally. So, why is there an issue? Those complaining are often not marrying,” he added.
In addition to his population comments, Ali criticized the Samajwadi Party, alleging that former cabinet minister Kamal Akhtar was involved in liquor sales in Moradabad.
“Everyone knows who ran the ghazal bar here. He himself sells liquor and then accuses us of being the BJP's B-team,” Ali claimed.
Ali also addressed issues of mob lynching and harassment against Muslims, alleging increased misconduct, even from women associated with Hindu organizations.
“In Moradabad, numerous madrasas have been unjustly shut down, labeled as terrorism hubs. Our girls are publicly shamed, and mob lynching occurs under the guise of meat-related accusations. We are unsafe while traveling on public transport. Our beards are being forcibly removed,” he stated.
He claimed that previously only men misbehaved, but now women are also participating.
“Misbehavior used to be solely from men, but now women also display inappropriate conduct towards Muslim women. We have never initiated this; we have always regarded them as elder brothers,” he noted.
In response to accusations that AIMIM operates as the 'B-team' for the BJP, Ali remarked, “People label us as the BJP's B-team. I am a Muslim, and the accuser is also a Muslim,” he concluded.