Hate Politics Against Muslims Led by Assam CM: Owaisi

AIMIM president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi turned the spotlight on rising communalism while addressing a packed public meeting in Zaheerabad on Sunday as part of the Telangana municipal election campaign. He said defeating divisive politics was possible only through an AIMIM victory.

Launching a strong attack on Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma , Owaisi alleged that a video circulating on social media was designed to inflame religious hatred. He said a formal complaint had been lodged with city police seeking criminal action. Though the video—posted on the official Assam BJP ‘X’ handle on February 7 was later removed, Owaisi claimed it continued to circulate online.

According to the complaint, the video depicts Sarma firing a gun at two individuals, one wearing a cap and the other sporting a beard. Owaisi said the visuals and phrases such as “point-blank shot” were deliberately used to provoke communal sentiments.

Addressing the crowd, Owaisi warned against the belief that communalism had ended in the country, saying religious hatred continued to poison society irrespective of who was in power. He asserted that protecting social equality and minority dignity required electing leaders committed to justice.

Calling the Zaheerabad municipal elections more than just a local contest, Owaisi said the polls would send a powerful message of unity. He urged voters to back AIMIM by voting for the ‘kite’ symbol on February 11 , highlighting the crucial role of municipal bodies in providing basic civic services such as water supply, drainage, roads, street lighting and healthcare.

Referring to the Jainoor riots of September 4, 2024 , Owaisi said Muslim-owned shops were damaged and victims faced a prolonged social boycott. He accused both the ruling Congress and the former BRS government of failing to support those affected, while stating that AIMIM extended ₹55 lakh in relief.

He also recalled clashes in Medak town in June 2024 , alleging attacks on a madrasa and shops ahead of Bakrid. Owaisi said AIMIM leaders stepped in to restore peace and provided medical and legal assistance.

Stressing the need for strong municipal governance, Owaisi said empowered local bodies would speed up development and ensure transparent welfare delivery. He urged voters to weigh the performance of the Congress, BRS and BJP before casting their ballots.

Telangana’s municipal elections will be held in a single phase on February 11 , covering seven municipal corporations and 116 municipalities , with counting scheduled for February 13 . Issues of development, local governance and social harmony are expected to dominate the polls.