JUH demands apology from MLA Tafajjal over defamatory remarks against Muslim

The Tripura State Jamiat Ulama-I-Hind on Saturday strongly condemned the statement reportedly made by BJP MLA Tafajjal Hossain in the recently concluded Tripura Legislative Assembly, where he allegedly claimed that the Muslim community is involved in various criminal activities in the country and state. The organization has demanded a public apology from the MLA.

In a statement, the Tripura State Jamiat Ulama-I-Hind expressed concern over media reports that the MLA from Boxanagar Assembly Constituency, Sepahijala District had generalized the Muslim community in his remarks during the assembly session, implying their involvement in criminal activities.

"The Muslim community has been deeply hurt by his remarks," the statement said. "Within the Muslim religion, there are revered figures such as scholars, philosophers, spiritualists and patriots who have dedicated their lives to the nation’s freedom and progress. The contributions of Muslims to India’s freedom and growth cannot be denied. Figures like Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad and Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed have made tremendous efforts against terrorism and crime. MLA Tafajjal has no right to malign an entire community in this way."

The organization further demanded proof of the MLA's claims, stating, "If his words are based on evidence, we ask him to present it. If his statements were true, how could he, as a member of the Muslim community, have been elected as a legislator? Additionally, why are leaders from the Muslim community being appointed to positions such as Waqf Committee Chairman, State Haj Committee Chairman and Minority Morcha Chairman? His past actions and statements do not align with the views of the educated and intellectual members of the Muslim community."

The statement emphasized that India is a secular state and the Constitution guarantees equal rights to all communities. It urged the MLA to issue a public apology to the Muslim community for his remarks, which were described as "baseless and defamatory."

The Jamiat Ulama-I-Hind, the largest Muslim organization in the country, condemned Tafajjal Hossain's statement, asserting that it has defamed not only the Muslim community but also his political party and the Legislative Assembly. The statement concluded by noting that the nation will not forgive such unfounded accusations and many people have already expressed their disapproval of his remarks.