In a video statement released on Tuesday, former Minister of State for Minority Welfare, Muslim Waqf, and Haj, Mohsin Raza, has defended the Uttar Pradesh government’s recent ordinance addressing what has been termed as ‘Love Jihad’.
Raza called the ordinance a crucial measure to prevent atrocities against daughters and emphasized that it should not link to any particular religion.
Raza’s comments come in the wake of increasing scrutiny and criticism from opposition parties regarding the ordinance.
The former minister argued that the legislation aims to tackle illegal conversion and coercive marriage practices that he claims were common in the past.
According to Raza, the Yogi Adityanath-led government conducted investigations that revealed instances of illegal conversions, prompting the need for such an ordinance.
Raza clarified that the ordinance targets no specific religion. Instead, it aims to protect individuals, regardless of their faith from deception and coercion into marriages or conversions.
He criticized the opposition for politicizing the issue, accusing them of exploiting religious sentiments for political gain.
Raza emphasized the importance of stringent laws to curb practices that lead to forced conversions and deceptive marriages, stating that without strong legal measures, such issues will persist.
Meanwhile, he pointed out that the opposition, particularly the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Congress, often views every issue through a religious lens, which he claims benefits them politically.
In contrast, Raza affirmed the BJP’s commitment to inclusive politics, encapsulated in their mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.
He urged that the focus should be on ensuring justice and protection for all citizens, rather than indulging in divisive religious rhetoric.
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