Indian PM Modi says he does not oppose Islam or Muslims
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has clarified that he does not hold opposition towards Islam or Muslims, urging the community to contemplate their future growth as they participate in the ongoing general election, which enters its third phase on Tuesday.
Critics of Modi and his party have accused them of targeting minority Muslims for electoral advantage, with allegations intensifying after Modi referred to Muslims in a recent speech as 'infiltrators' who have 'more children.'
Modi refuted accusations of discriminating against Muslims and linked his recent comments to what he described as the opposition Congress party's election strategy to redistribute the wealth of the majority Hindus among Muslims. The Congress party denies making any such promise.
In an interview aired on Monday with broadcaster Times Now, Modi stated, 'We are not opposed to Islam and Muslims. The opposition is looking after its own benefit. The Muslim community is intelligent... the opposition is worried that their lies have been caught.'
Modi, who is seeking a rare third consecutive term in the seven-phase election that commenced on April 19 and concludes on June 1, directed a message to the Muslim community, urging introspection and reflection. He encouraged them to consider why they may have faced challenges and lacked government benefits during the Congress party's governance.
As the election progresses, analysts note that Modi and his Hindu nationalist party have made contentious remarks to energize their hardline support base, particularly amidst comparatively low voter turnout compared to previous years. Surveys indicate that job opportunities and inflation remain primary concerns for voters.
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