Naseem Siddiqui Defends Kareena Kapoor, Calls Legal Notice a Publicity Stunt

Mumbai, November 12 (Daily Kiran) : Naseem Siddiqui, spokesperson for the NCP (SP), has publicly defended actress Kareena Kapoor, challenging the recent legal notice sent to her. He deemed the notice inappropriate and called for its withdrawal, suggesting it may be part of a publicity stunt.

Siddiqui also commented on various political matters, including remarks made by Sam Pitroda regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi, attacks on the CRPF, and potential alliances in Uttar Pradesh involving Asaduddin Owaisi and Chandrashekhar. He noted that Pitroda, who has been close to the Gandhi family and serves as the president of the Indian Overseas Congress, seems to be shifting his perspective, possibly aligning himself with Modi due to dissatisfaction with the Congress party.

He asserted that the differences in thought between Indians abroad and those in India could be significant. Furthermore, Siddiqui accused the Congress party of harboring members influenced by the BJP and RSS ideologies. He suggested that Pitroda’s praise for the BJP and distancing from Congress might be part of a larger strategy.

On the matter of the legal notice concerning Kapoor, Siddiqui stated that wearing a religious verse or a mala does not constitute disrespect to Islam or any religion. He emphasized that many people wear talismans and bind their hands with threads, and he sees no offense in Kapoor’s actions. He criticized the notice issued by Abbas Sahab as unwarranted and demanded its retraction.

Siddiqui characterized the entire incident as a publicity stunt that tarnishes the image of religion. He questioned the silence of those who criticize Kapoor, particularly in light of historical controversies like the Babri Masjid case. He urged that religious matters should be handled by spiritual leaders rather than politicians, advocating for a separation of politics from religion.

Addressing the recent attacks on the CRPF, Siddiqui called for accountability from Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. He questioned how attacks on security forces continue despite government claims of eradicating Naxalism and terrorism. He stressed the need for a solid plan to combat these issues instead of political maneuvering.

Regarding the potential alliance in Uttar Pradesh, he expressed concern that any coalition outside of the Akhilesh Yadav-led alliance and the BJP-NDA could fracture opposition votes. He described Chandrashekhar as a promising Dalit leader but criticized Owaisi, labeling him as an unofficial B-team of the BJP.

Siddiqui commented on the proposed merger of the NCP, noting that while nothing is impossible in politics, timing is crucial. He referenced Supriya Sule’s statement, which indicated that no immediate merger was planned.

In response to questions about Sonia Gandhi’s book, Siddiqui accused the BJP of double standards. He pointed out that Modi’s inauguration of the Ram Temple and celebrations with soldiers during Diwali are not scrutinized, yet Gandhi’s book is politically analyzed.

He concluded by stating that Gandhi’s book reflects her thoughts and has garnered significant interest, indicating that it could pose challenges for the BJP.