SRINAGAR: Former chief minister and National Conference vice president, Omar Abdullah, expressed his concerns about the escalating hate against Muslims in India, stating that it has become more mainstream than ever before.
Omar’s comments followed an incident where BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri insulted Muslim legislator Danish Ali, referring to him as “Katwa Mullah and Aatankwadi.”
In a TV interview on Friday, Omar questioned how Muslim members within the saffron party could tolerate such extreme hostility directed at their own community.
The incident occurred during a discussion on the Chandrayaan-3 mission in the Lok Sabha, where Bidhuri made objectionable remarks against BSP leader Danish Ali.
These remarks were subsequently removed from the official record. During Bidhuri’s comments, his party colleague and former union minister Harsh Vardhan was seen laughing, sparking outrage among Opposition members who demanded action against the BJP MP for his derogatory remarks.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla took the matter seriously, warning Bidhuri of strict action if he repeated such behavior in the future.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed regret in the House immediately after Bidhuri’s remarks, stating, “I express regret if the opposition is hurt by the remarks made by the member.” Singh also requested the removal of the remarks from the proceedings.
Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra called on Speaker Om Birla to take action against Bidhuri, challenging him to initiate a privilege motion against her for speaking out. She also asked what action would be taken against Bidhuri.
Congress leader Pawan Khera criticised Bidhuri’s conduct in the Lok Sabha, stating that he had a better reputation during his time as an MLA in the Delhi Assembly.
