New Delhi: Union law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad’s remark that the government has given “sanctity” to Muslims even though they do not vote for the BJP on Saturday drew strong criticism from the Opposition, but he stoutly defended it.
The Congress, Left and other parties said the Constitution bestows on all Indians some fundamental rights, including Muslims, and that these were not “charity” extended by a minister.
Congress leader M. Veerappa Moily accused the minister of trying to divide the society. “It is most unfortunate...He is trying to create a divide...trying to divide the population of this country. He is trying to empower himself to give that kind of certificate on who is sanctified and who is not. I think he has to apologise for the statement as it sends out very wrong message,” he said.
“What do you mean we gave them sanctity? Is it a charity the minister of law and justice is doing,” CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury asked.
Prasad had on Friday said that Muslims do not vote for the BJP, but its government has given them “proper sanctity”.
“We have got 13 Chief Ministers of our own. We are ruling the country. Have we victimised any Muslim gentleman working in the industry or service? Have we dismissed them? We don’t get Muslim votes. I acknowledge very clearly, but have we given them proper sanctity or not?” Prasad said at the Mindmine Summit here.
The law minister, on Saturday sought to defend his remarks, saying the government believes in an inclusive society and respects the vibrant cultural diversity of India.
“My stand is very clear. The Modi government believes in inclusive society. It respects the vibrant cultural diversity of India. “Every Indian, be it Hindu, Muslim, Christian or a citizen of marginalised deprived community. Development of all is our primary concern. We don’t measure the development on the yardsticks of vote bank,” he tweeted.
