The Aryavarth Express
Amravati (Maharashtra): AIMIM national president Asaduddin Owaisi on Sunday strongly criticised the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government, mocking reports that claimed people’s identities were being verified by placing mobile phones on their backs to determine whether they were Bangladeshi nationals.
Addressing a press conference in Amravati, Owaisi sarcastically “congratulated” the UP government for what he described as a new “invention,” saying even ISRO scientists would be surprised by such a method. He questioned whether citizenship and identity in India would now be decided through mobile phones, calling the alleged practice absurd, illegal and unconstitutional.
The AIMIM chief also alleged that after mosques, the administration has begun bulldozer action against madrasas in Sambhal district by branding them illegal. He accused the government of acting arbitrarily and misusing the law under the guise of action against illegal constructions. However, the administration maintains that the action is being taken strictly against unauthorised structures and without discrimination.
Owaisi claimed that such actions are creating fear among the public and amount to arbitrariness in the name of law and order. He urged the government to strictly follow constitutional and legal procedures, particularly on sensitive matters such as identity and citizenship.
Raising concerns over electoral practices, Owaisi levelled serious allegations against the ruling parties, claiming that after “vote theft,” candidates were now being “stolen.” He alleged that in several places, candidates are being forced to withdraw from elections through intimidation, threats or bribery, calling it a dangerous trend for democracy.
“If voters are not given a candidate of their choice, the foundation of democracy is weakened,” he said, adding that unopposed elections secured through coercion pose a serious threat to democratic values. Referring to BMC elections, he said any such practices undermine the public’s right to vote.
On foreign policy, Owaisi questioned what he termed a “double standard” in India’s approach towards Pakistan, noting that while strong statements are issued following terror attacks, sporting ties continue at the international level. He also called for a clear and transparent policy on illegal Bangladeshi nationals in India, stressing that deportation should follow constitutional and humane procedures.
Owaisi further expressed concern over regional security, citing increased Chinese strategic activity near the Bangladesh border and the alleged presence of elements linked to Pakistan’s intelligence agency. He said these issues should be addressed from a national security perspective rather than being reduced to political debate.
