13 November, 2024; In a recent statement, Kausar Jahan, Chairperson of the Delhi State Haj Committee and a leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), made strong remarks about the Congress party’s stance towards the Muslim community, questioning their commitment to genuine empowerment and inclusion. Jahan asserted that the Congress has historically used Muslims as a vote bank without providing substantial benefits or support to the community.
Drawing attention to the case of Ilma Afroz, a woman IPS officer, Jahan highlighted what she described as the shortcomings of the Congress party in supporting officials who take action against corruption and illegal activities. According to Jahan, Officer Afroz and her mother were forced to leave their home due to harassment she faced after taking bold action against illegal drug activities and unlicensed mining operations. She claimed that a Congress MLA was involved in insulting and pressuring the officer, which led her to leave her residence.
Jahan questioned whether this situation aligns with the Congress party’s advocacy for women’s empowerment. She specifically pointed to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s campaign slogan, “Ladki hoon, lad sakti hoon” (I am a girl, I can fight), and challenged its credibility in light of the alleged treatment of Officer Afroz.
Jahan’s remarks underscore ongoing debates about the role and policies of major political parties in India, particularly concerning the representation and welfare of minority communities and women. The incident has sparked reactions across political circles, with the BJP using it to highlight what they see as a contradiction between the Congress’s public statements and actions. This situation sheds light on broader issues of governance, community support, and gender empowerment in Indian politics.
