Hyderabad: Former State Minorities Commission Chairman Abid Rasool Khan strongly condemned Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for linking Muslims’ honour with the Congress party. The statement, made during a public meeting on Tuesday, drew sharp criticism from Khan, who called it divisive and unconstitutional.
Revanth Reddy had reportedly said, “Congress hai toh Musalman hai, Congress hai toh Musalman ki izzat hai, Congress nahi toh Musalman kuch bhi nahi.” Khan said such remarks distort history and insult the community’s contribution.
Muslim leaders’ role in Congress history
Khan reminded the Chief Minister that Muslims played a vital role in the Congress long before India’s independence. For instance, Badruddin Tyabji was the first Muslim Congress president in 1887. Likewise, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad led the party twice and served as its president during the freedom movement.
He asserted that no political party can claim ownership of any community’s loyalty. Moreover, he stressed that the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion irrespective of politics.
Call for a public apology from the Chief Minister
Khan said Reddy’s remarks revealed a feudal mindset that sought to create fear among Muslims who did not support the Congress. Furthermore, he noted that making such statements in the presence of Muslim legislators and ministers was “politically irresponsible” and “a direct affront to the self-respect of the Muslim community.”
He added that the strength of any community rests on its integrity, not on political patronage. Therefore, such rhetoric, he said, undermines equality and constitutional principles.
Khan demanded that the Chief Minister withdraw his statement and issue a public apology immediately. In conclusion, he urged political leaders to maintain dignity while addressing sensitive issues of faith and representation.