Uttar Pradesh minister Raghuraj Singh has sparked controversy after describing Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and Delhi’s Jamia Millia Islamia as “hubs of terrorists” and saying he would shut down both institutions if given the opportunity.
Singh, a minister of state with rank in the Uttar Pradesh Labour and Employment Department, made the remarks in Aligarh. His comments have drawn attention on social media and triggered criticism and debate over his targeting of two prominent educational institutions.
Singh says universities produce ‘traitors’ and terrorists
Singh alleged that the universities, which he claimed were run with taxpayers’ money paid by Hindus, were places where “traitors” were nurtured and terrorists produced.
He said he prayed to God to give him the strength and opportunity to close both institutions.
The minister also proposed replacing AMU and Jamia with what he called a “Hindustan University”. He further called for removing the term “Muslim University” from the name of such institutions.
Previous controversial remarks
This is not the first time Singh has faced criticism for comments about Muslim institutions. He has previously made controversial remarks targeting Muslim organisations and institutions.
His latest comments have renewed debate over the use of religiously charged rhetoric against AMU and Jamia, both prominent institutions of higher education in India.
