New Delhi: There was a large protest in the Jama Masjid complex and adjoining areas in old Delhi on Friday (June 10).
The protest was ostensibly against BJP leaders for recent controversial remarks, but Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid washed off his hands and instead chose to blame AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi for the huge crowd gathering.
“No call was given for protest by the Masjid,” said Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid.
Police said though there was a huge crowd due to Friday prayers, the situation was under control.
“We don’t know who are the ones protesting, I think they belong to AIMIM or are Owaisi’s people. We made it clear that if they want to protest, they can; – but we will not support them,” Shahi Imam said.
It is not the first time the Jama Masjid premises and occasions of prayers have been made use of politically by a section of Muslim leaders.
A police official said people protested at Jama Masjid against the statements of suspended BJP leader Nupur Sharma and expelled BJP leader Naveen Kumar Jindal.
“We have removed the people from there. The situation is under control now,” he said.
It may be mentioned that the Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday denied the claims by the visiting Iranian Minister that he raised the issue of derogatory remarks against Mohammad (the founder of Islam) in his meeting with the Indian dignitaries, including EAM S Jaishankar and the National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.
“My understanding is that this issue was not raised during that conversation”, MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said
The BJP has issued a statement saying the party and the government in India is committed to the cherished spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas and inclusive development for all and allows freedom of religion to people.
“As India celebrates 75th year of its Independence, we are committed to making India a great country where all are equal and everyone lives with dignity, where all are committed to India’s unity and integrity, where all enjoy the fruits of growth and development,” BJP leader Arun Singh said.
“During the thousands of years of history of India every religion has blossomed and flourished. The Bharatiya Janata Party respects all religions,” he has said.
