Lucknow, March 7: Samajwadi Party leader ST Hasan has reassured that both Hindus and Muslims remain secure in India, even as missile strikes rock Muslim-majority nations amid escalating tensions between Iran, the US, and Israel. Speaking exclusively to IANS, Hasan dismissed fears over the safety of minorities in the country, pointing the finger at just 5 percent of the population as the source of any threat.
Hasan contrasted the situation in India with events in Arab countries, where he noted religious freedom prevails without incidents like bulldozers razing mosques. ‘Missiles falling in Muslim countries don’t dictate the security of Muslims here,’ he stated firmly. He highlighted that grand temples are constructed in those nations, underscoring a level of harmony absent in current Indian discourse.
Reflecting on the past, Hasan recalled that 14 years ago, communities lived in perfect harmony without discrimination. ‘But since this government came to power, Muslims face discrimination and their religious sentiments are hurt—something not seen even in Islamic nations,’ he added.
On missile attacks in places like Dubai and Qatar, Hasan clarified that these target American bases and refineries with significant US stakes, not civilian areas. Markets bustle as usual, and daily life continues uninterrupted, he observed.
Responding to BJP leader Sangeet Som’s controversial remark labeling Akhilesh Yadav as the ‘last Mughal ruler,’ Hasan retorted sharply. ‘He should know his place; his own party has sidelined him. Akhilesh is a fine Hindu who unites everyone,’ he defended. Hasan also questioned the BJP’s tendency to divide people on religious lines, reminding that not all Mughals were invaders—they contributed significantly to India’s heritage.
Dismissing Union Minister Giriraj Singh’s comments on Bengal, Hasan called it an agenda-driven ploy to stoke Hindu-Muslim divides. ‘Citizenship is a central government matter, not the state’s. They’re just spreading confusion,’ he said.
Finally, praising social media bans for children in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, Hasan endorsed the move to curb online obscenity. ‘It leads to wrong thoughts in kids’ minds and incidents like rapes. The challenge now is effective implementation,’ he concluded, urging authorities to ensure it works on the ground.