In a statement, Advocate Irshad Ahmad said that no political party today is willing to talk about the core issues affecting Muslims — such as educational backwardness, unemployment, and poverty. Instead, all parties only seek Muslim votes by spreading fear of the BJP, while the very same parties openly raise and champion the interests of other social groups and give them prominence on their political platforms.
He further stated that from 1952 until now, Muslims in North India have never formed their own political party. Until 1989, Muslims voted blindly for the Congress party, just as the Dalit community used to do. But after 1989, a new political consciousness and energy emerged within the Dalit community. They created their own party, chose their own leaders, and ensured their victories, gaining a significant role in shaping politics. Dalit leaders bargained with other parties based on their own strength and terms, securing a share in power. This is a testament to their political wisdom and bargaining ability.
Advocate Irshad Ahmad expressed deep regret that today the Muslim community lags even behind the Dalits — in education, employment, and poverty — and yet continues to lose its political bargaining power. So-called “secular” parties seek Muslim votes but hesitate to give Muslim leaders a platform or address Muslim concerns in policies and programs. Instead, these parties sideline Muslim leaders and issues, only offering sympathy and making promises in speeches, spreading fear of the BJP, and gaining Muslim votes in the process.
Even after 1989, Muslims in North India have continued to shift from the Congress to other so-called “secular” parties, and this trend persists to this day. These parties have long understood that invoking the fear of the BJP is enough to win the Muslim vote, and they continue to use this tactic.
Advocate Irshad Ahmad cited the Sachar Committee Report, which brought national attention to the educational, social, and economic backwardness of the Muslim community. Even today, a large portion of the Muslim population is deprived of basic education, grappling with poverty and unemployment, and unable to benefit from job-creation efforts or government schemes.
With the Bihar elections now approaching, it is imperative to ask the top leadership of these so-called “secular” parties directly — Will they work to address the fundamental issues and problems faced by the Muslim community, or will they once again seek votes merely by spreading fear? If this neglect continues, then the Muslim community will have no option but to explore new political paths.
