Mumbai, March 19: AIMIM leader Waris Pathan has strongly criticized the arrest of 14 young men during an Iftar party on a boat in Varanasi, where they were accused of throwing non-vegetarian food into the river. He stated that it now feels as though being Muslim in this country has become a crime.
In an interview in Mumbai, Pathan highlighted that Muslims have faced repeated attacks since Ramadan began 20-25 days ago. He claimed that they are being harassed, imprisoned, and beaten. “Look at what is happening; an FIR was filed against 14 individuals simply for breaking their fast. You accuse them of throwing pieces of chicken into the river—do you have any video evidence? Under which legal provisions was the FIR filed? When people drink alcohol there, no action is taken, but if some individuals hold an Iftar party, they end up in jail,” he said.
Pathan also condemned the language being used against Muslims in Uttam Nagar, stating that the administration is silently watching the spectacle. “If a Muslim speaks out, action is taken against them,” he added.
Regarding the anti-conversion law, Pathan argued that it violates Article 25, which allows every individual to practice their religion. “I have mentioned this before. Without this law, if someone watches a video, hears something, or finds information online that makes them want to change, who can stop them? Every person has the right to follow their religion. If they convert, will you imprison them?” he questioned.
He asserted that the law is designed solely to defame Muslims and has been the subject of extensive debate.
On the issue of actress Sara Ali Khan needing to submit an affidavit to visit Badrinath and Kedarnath, Pathan remarked that it is a personal matter. “If she wants to go, she must submit an affidavit. Why does she want to go? Is she Muslim or not? This information should be provided first. If she wishes to go, she must comply with the requirements. Every directive should be followed, and the work should be done properly,” he concluded.
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