Hyderabad: MoS Bandi Sanjay Kumar Criticizes Owaisi’s Comments on Waqf Board and TTD
Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar has expressed strong indignation in response to comments made by AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi. Owaisi questioned the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led NDA government at the Centre for its decision to allow non-Muslims to participate in the Waqf Board while advocating for exclusive Hindu representation in the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
Criticism of Owaisi’s Remarks
Sanjay condemned Owaisi for attempting to draw a connection between the “sacred” TTD, a prominent Hindu temple, and Waqf Board lands. “Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam is the sacred place of Lord Venkateswara. The Waqf Board is solely related to land matters. It isn’t even comparable to your place of worship, Mecca Mosque,” he stated.
Describing Owaisi’s remarks as “disgraceful,” Sanjay accused him of “shamelessly linking TTD with Waqf land business dealings.” He argued that the central government’s intention is to ensure that Waqf lands benefit the poorer Muslim community, rather than serve as a platform for political gamesmanship.
Addressing Old City Voters
While addressing residents of the Old City, Sanjay urged voters to reflect on their historical voting patterns with AIMIM. “Why has the Old City still not transformed? Why hasn’t it become a new city like Cyberabad?” he questioned, highlighting ongoing struggles such as inadequate housing and lack of educational opportunities in the area. He contrasted these issues with the “success” of the Owaisi family, whom he accused of profiting from Waqf lands under the guise of service.
Sanjay hinted at revealing records related to AIMIM’s dealings, suggesting that they would not withstand scrutiny, further intensifying his criticism of the party.
Critique of AIMIM’s Political Alignment
The Karimnagar MP also took aim at AIMIM’s current alignment with Congress, claiming it has exposed the party’s “true colours” after previously stoking Telangana sentiment. He urged members of Congress, BRS, and AIMIM to reconsider their political paths. “If you sacrifice for the nation and righteousness, your name will be remembered in history. But why are you ruining your lives for the opportunistic politics of KCR, Owaisi, and the fake Gandhi family? Think it over,” Sanjay stated.
As political tensions rise ahead of upcoming elections, Sanjay’s remarks highlight ongoing debates around representation and the role of religion in politics, particularly in the context of community welfare and land usage.