In 2014, Imran Masood became a controversial figure due to his “boti-boti” remark about Narendra Modi. Now, in a shift of tone, Masood, running for the Saharanpur Lok Sabha seat as the Congress-Samajwadi Party candidate, invokes the name of Lord Ram in his campaign, emphasizing values and unity. “You find Ram by living with dignity, you find Ram in Hanuman’s heart. This country belongs to Lord Ram,” Masood told News18.
Masood, who previously made headlines for his contentious comments, is currently engaging in a campaign that includes references to religious harmony, as he competes in the election emphasizing bread-and-butter issues against his rival, former BJP MP Raghav Lakhanpal, who is confident of securing a significant victory.
Saharanpur, a constituency known for its tight electoral races, has a diverse voter base, including a significant number of Muslim and Dalit voters, which has historically led to varied political outcomes. Lakhanpal, while campaigning, made remarks highlighting the demographic split, suggesting a straightforward victory based on majority votes.
Locals in Saharanpur express a range of opinions, with some Muslims appreciating the development work under the BJP, while others, particularly in areas like Deoband, lean towards Congress or the BSP, the latter seen by some as diluting the Muslim vote potentially favoring a BJP win again.
Masood criticizes the BJP’s campaign tactics and the perceived misappropriation of religious symbols for political gain. He argues that the real issues facing the country are employment and hunger, accusing the BJP of diverting attention from these critical matters. Masood counters the BJP’s narrative around bringing Lord Ram to the forefront, stating that Ram is beyond physical representation and resides in the virtue of living and in devotion, as seen in the story of Shabri’s berries.
Masood asserts that both Hindus and Muslims hold respect for Ram, challenging the notion that the deity can be monopolized by any political entity. This stance is part of his broader critique against the BJP and the BSP, whom he accuses of aiding the BJP indirectly.
As the election draws near, with Saharanpur set to vote on April 19 in the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections, the race heats up. While Masood positions himself as the defender of constitutional values, Lakhanpal is confident of a sweeping victory, citing the BJP’s governance as a pivotal factor. With the electorate divided and multiple candidates vying for support, the outcome in Saharanpur remains a focal point of interest in these elections.
