Jammu and Kashmir MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi responded sharply to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message on Muharram, invoking the message of Imam Hussain (AS) and linking it to present-day political and social concerns.
His remarks came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X on the occasion of Muharram, recalling the sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and describing it as an inspiration to stand for truth and justice.
Modi had said, “The sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) continues to inspire many people to remain steadfast in the pursuit of truth and justice. It is also a reminder of the enduring power of courage and conviction.”
Ruhullah Mehdi quotes Imam Hussain and questions governance
In response, Mehdi quoted a saying attributed to Imam Hussain (AS): “Do you not see that truth is no longer acted upon, and falsehood is no longer restrained?”
He said this message reflects situations where, according to him, institutions meant to protect justice and rights are weakened or misused.
Mehdi alleged that when institutions are “corrupted,” citizens suffer, and public trust is damaged. He referred to issues such as corruption, exam irregularities, discrimination, mob violence, and alleged misuse of state power.
He also mentioned cases of people being jailed on the basis of identity and claimed that constitutional decisions, including the abrogation of Article 370, were taken without public consent.
He wrote that Imam Hussain (AS) represents resistance against injustice, saying, “Someone like me will not come to terms with this kind of situation.”
Context: Leaders mark Muharram with messages of justice and sacrifice
The exchange came amid nationwide messages on Muharram from political leaders, including Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, who also paid tribute to Imam Hussain (AS).
He described Muharram as a reminder of values like courage, sacrifice, compassion, and commitment to truth, and called for peace, harmony, and mutual respect in society.
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the most sacred periods in Islam. The 10th day, Ashura, marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE, an event widely seen as a symbol of resistance against injustice.
