Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind president Arshad Madani alleged that Muslims in India face discrimination, pointing to the cases of Al-Falah University and Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan. His remarks drew strong reactions, especially from the BJP, which accused him of misleading and exploiting the Muslim community.
Madani said, “Today, a Muslim like Mamdani can become the mayor of New York. A Khan can become the mayor of London. But in India, a Muslim cannot become the vice chancellor of a university. And if he does, he ends up in jail like Azam Khan. Look at Al-Falah… its founder is in jail, and no one knows how many years he will stay there.”
Al-Falah University has become a key focus in the Delhi 10/11 blast probe. Investigators are looking into alleged money laundering and suspected terror financing. Its founder, Jawad Siddiqui, is currently in the Enforcement Directorate’s custody.
Madani said the world thinks Muslims are “helpless” and “finished,” but he disagrees. He cited Zohran Mamdani becoming New York mayor-elect and Sadiq Khan’s election as mayor of London as examples of Muslim representation. “The government wants the ground to slip from under their feet,” he alleged.
Congress leader Udit Raj supported Madani’s concerns. “I agree that whoever carried out a terrorist act in Al-Falah University must face the law. There is no forgiveness for terrorism. But the university itself should not be targeted,” he said. Raj questioned why Muslim homes were being bulldozed and added, “The US is great because there is no discrimination.”
Samajwadi Party spokesperson Ghanshyam Tiwari also commented, saying the Prime Minister should address the issue and provide a clear response.
The BJP dismissed Madani’s remarks. Party leader Mohsin Raza accused him of exploiting Muslims for years. “Arshad Madani and his family have looted the country’s Muslims. They have always played blame-game politics. They took grants meant for minorities but never worked for their welfare,” he said.
Another BJP leader, Yaser Jilani, said Madani was spreading confusion. “He says Muslims are suffering worldwide, and at the same time mentions Zohran Mamdani’s success. He talks about Al-Falah University and Azam Khan, but both are facing serious charges. India is the best place for Muslims, and Hindus have always stood as elder brothers. He should not mislead the nation,” Jilani said.
