A heated exchange unfolded between AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi and Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma over Owaisi’s statement about his dream of seeing a hijab-wearing woman become India’s Prime Minister.
Speaking at a Maharashtra election rally, Owaisi cited the Indian Constitution, framed by B.R. Ambedkar, highlighting its inclusive nature. He said, “It is my dream that a hijab-clad daughter will become the Prime Minister of this country,” contrasting India’s inclusive Constitution with Pakistan’s, which restricts leadership to a single religion.
Responding, Sarma stated, “Constitutionally anyone can become Prime Minister, but India is a Hindu nation. We are confident the Prime Minister will always be a Hindu.”
Owaisi fired back in Nagpur, calling Sarma’s view petty and misinformed, saying, “Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Constitution allows any citizen, regardless of faith, to hold office. Unfortunately, some people do not understand its spirit.”
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla also criticized Owaisi, challenging him to appoint a hijab-wearing or Pasmanda Muslim woman as AIMIM president before claiming one could become Prime Minister.
During the campaign, Owaisi also criticized past amendments to the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, accusing the Congress of enabling misuse of the law against undertrials like Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam.
The remarks come ahead of Mumbai’s civic elections scheduled for January 15, with results on January 16.
