Mufti Wajahat Kashmi Critiques Political Leaders Over Election Commission and Personal Law Issues
Islamic scholar Mufti Wajahat Kashmi addresses criticisms of the Election Commission and personal law, defending constitutional values in India.
New Delhi, September 27 (Daily Kiran) : Islamic scholar Mufti Wajahat Kashmi recently addressed various political issues, including criticisms of the Election Commission and comments made by political figures such as Asaduddin Owaisi and Rahul Gandhi. Speaking in New Delhi, he expressed concern over the prevalence of protests in the capital, questioning whether opposition groups have turned Delhi into a hub for demonstrations. “Delhi has millions of residents who deserve to go about their lives without constant disruptions,” he stated.
Kashmi pointed out a long-standing tradition where former Chief Election Commissioners are appointed as governors or members of the Rajya Sabha after retirement. He questioned the transparency of this practice, asking, “If there is transparency, why do these issues persist?”
Regarding Owaisi’s remarks, Kashmi asserted that both Owaisi and Gandhi share a similar political DNA. He criticized them for questioning the integrity of the Election Commission and electronic voting machines after electoral defeats, while ignoring the millions of Bangladeshi nationals removed from voter rolls in states like Bengal. “Does the opposition want foreign nationals to occupy our resources?” he asked, affirming the Election Commission’s role as a constitutional body fulfilling its duties.
On the topic of personal law and a recent Delhi High Court ruling concerning POCSO, Kashmi emphasized the supremacy of the Constitution. He stated, “For Muslims, Sharia is a personal law, but for the 1.4 billion people in this country, the Constitution and laws are paramount.” He urged Muslim organizations to focus on constitutional adherence rather than personal law, highlighting that many do not grant rights to their daughters.
Kashmi also responded to Mahmood Madani’s call to approach the UN, suggesting that Madani leads a group that misrepresents Indian Muslims on the international stage. “India is one of the most peaceful and beautiful countries for all religions,” he said, criticizing Madani for his political maneuvers.
He expressed disbelief at former Vice President Hamid Ansari’s claims about Muslim safety in India, pointing out that Madani’s inability to return to the Rajya Sabha reflects a larger narrative. “This government is strong and decisive,” he remarked, urging against the portrayal of Indian Muslims as oppressed. Kashmi affirmed that Muslims in India live with dignity and respect for the Constitution.
Lastly, he criticized Madani’s organization for failing to address the legal status of mosques and madrasas, asserting that they have not initiated efforts to ensure compliance with legal standards. “Instead of taking responsibility, they blame the government and instill fear among Muslims,” he concluded, condemning such tactics.
