AIMIM Chief and Member of Parliament Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led government, accusing it of systemic discrimination against Muslim-majority areas by neglecting the provision of essential public services such as schools, colleges, and hospitals.
Speaking at a public event, Owaisi referenced a recent study conducted by Paul Novosad of Dartmouth College and MIT, which he claimed highlighted the bias in public service distribution in areas with higher Muslim populations. He alleged that the government’s policies were reinforcing a communal mindset rather than addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by the community.
“There are empirical studies which clearly show that governments have consistently failed to provide public services in areas with significant Muslim populations. For example, while they can construct a police outpost right opposite the Sambhal historical masjid, they fail to establish schools, colleges, or hospitals in Sambhal. The dropout rate is highest among Muslim women, literacy rates are abysmal, and the number of graduates in the Muslim community remains the lowest,” Owaisi stated.
He criticized the Uttar Pradesh BJP government for prioritizing surveillance over development in Muslim-majority localities. “Instead of solving issues like low literacy, medical problems, and high dropout rates, they focus on installing CCTV cameras and creating police outposts. This reinforces a communal mindset, creating suspicion towards Muslim areas,” Owaisi added.
Highlighting the disparity, Owaisi questioned the government’s claims of striving for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India). “If the goal is truly a developed India, why not provide these basic services to all citizens without bias?” he asked.
The remarks have sparked a fresh debate on the treatment of marginalized communities and the equitable distribution of public resources. Owaisi’s comments are likely to intensify the political discourse as questions around inclusivity and governance gain prominence ahead of upcoming elections.