Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 8: Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju’s statement claiming that minorities receive “more support and funding than Hindus” has ignited a political controversy, drawing sharp responses from across the political spectrum.

Rijiju had remarked that under the Modi government, minority communities receive more targeted support, adding, “What the minorities get, the Hindus don’t.” The statement quickly sparked debate.

Defending the government’s stance, senior BJP leader and former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said the Modi administration has focused on inclusive development, dismantling “communal polarisation” through empowerment of the underprivileged.

BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar echoed the sentiment, crediting the government for making India “absolutely safe” and eliminating threats like Naxalism. He contrasted this with the UPA era, alleging frequent bomb blasts and weaker internal security.

However, opposition leaders hit back. Samajwadi Party’s Abu Azmi called Rijiju’s statement divisive and misleading, warning against using Muslims as political targets. “The Constitution is equal for all. These leaders target Muslims for votes,” he said.

NCP MLA Rohit Pawar criticised the BJP for promoting communal tension. “Instead of uniting, BJP leaders indulge in rhetoric that only divides,” he said, challenging Rijiju to answer for his party’s track record on religious harmony.

As the controversy grows, Rijiju’s comments have become the latest flashpoint in the ongoing debate over minority rights, secularism, and political polarisation in the country.