Daijiworld Media Network - Hyderabad

Hyderabad, May 30: Asaduddin Owaisi on Friday questioned what he described as selective objections to Muslims offering namaz on roads, arguing that the same standards should apply to public celebrations and processions of all religions.

Addressing a gathering at the headquarters of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen in Hyderabad, Owaisi alleged that attempts were being made to marginalise Muslims and reduce them to the status of "second-class citizens".

Referring to Article 25 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion, Owaisi said that if offering namaz on roads was considered unacceptable, then religious events and festivals of all communities held on public roads should be viewed similarly.

"If offering namaz on roads is wrong, then festivals of every religion on roads are also wrong. If meat shops are asked to close during someone's festival, then liquor shops should also remain closed during Ramzan," he said.

The AIMIM chief also questioned objections raised over prayers on roads while religious yatras and processions continue to be organised in different parts of the country.

He alleged that restrictions were often imposed on the sale of eggs, meat and chicken during certain Hindu festivals and claimed that television channels disproportionately focused on issues such as Muslims offering namaz on roads while overlooking matters of wider public concern.

Stating that India belongs equally to Muslims, Owaisi said the community would continue to raise its concerns through democratic means.

"How can you snatch away my religious freedom?" he asked, while also expressing concern over what he described as inadequate public discussion on crimes against women.

Commenting on the proposed Uniform Civil Code in Assam, Owaisi questioned why principles governing Hindu marriages were being extended to Muslims and reiterated his opposition to the legislation.

He also criticised what he described as efforts to portray non-vegetarian food consumption by Muslims negatively. Owaisi alleged that organisations affiliated with the Sangh Parivar were attempting to promote vegetarianism across the country.

Citing references from the ancient text Arthashastra and remarks attributed to Swami Vivekananda, Owaisi argued that meat consumption had historical roots in Indian society.

The AIMIM leader's remarks come amid continuing political debates over religious practices, food habits and the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code in various states.