Tensions simmer in Uttar Pradesh after police raided an empty house in Bareilly where Muslims were offering Friday prayers. AIMIM’s Waris Pathan, never one to mince words, has labeled it a blatant violation of rights, asking outright: ‘Is Muslim identity now a crime?’
The now-viral footage shows peaceful worship by a dozen men, yet led to arrests and later bail. In an interview, Pathan dissected the action: ‘No disturbance, no violation—yet handcuffs. Which law prohibits private prayer?’
He contrasted it with mob violence against public prayers, reaffirming Article 25’s promise of religious liberty. ‘The Constitution stands violated; the UP government must answer,’ he demanded, warning of broader implications for secular fabric.
Pathan’s Mumbai commentary zeroed in on Shiv Sena Shinde group’s Taj Hotel extravaganza. ‘Why pamper councilors there? Mayor deal in the works?’ he quizzed, citing intel on cross-party huddles. ‘A big game afoot—watch this space.’
On alliances, AIMIM stays oppositional, decisions per party chief. Defection rumors? ‘Our winners honor voter faith,’ he assured.
Dismissing threat narratives against AIMIM, Pathan flipped the script: ‘Hate peddlers are the danger, fracturing society and democracy. Voters chose us fairly—respect that.’ His bold stance amplifies voices for tolerance in polarized times.