Union Minister and BJP ally Chirag Paswan dismissed the controversy over Muslims offering namaz on the streets, calling it a "useless subject" and stressing that the country faces far more pressing issues that need attention.
At a Times Now event, the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) leader was asked about the opposition to namaz on the streets. "This is pointless (faltu) talk. It shouldn't even be discussed, as it's meaningless. There are much more significant issues in the country that deserve our focus. The problem arises when we dwell on such irrelevant topics, creating unnecessary tension in society and the nation. Without reason, divisions are created between communities. This is meaningless," he responded.
Paswan remarked that people have been offering namaz on the streets for years. "If we weren't discussing this, you might be asking me about my work as the Food Processing minister. But now, these issues are being sidelined," he said.
When it was pointed out that some members of his ally, the BJP, were discussing the issue, the minister responded, "But I don't agree with them. That's what I'm saying. I'm an educated youth from the 21st century. We should not interfere in religious matters. Religion is a personal matter. I hosted an Iftaar party and attended it wearing a tilak. That's my faith. I won't forget my own religious values to respect yours, but these matters should stay behind closed doors. Some people follow a certain faith, others don't. Many Hindus don't wear a tilak—does that make them any less Hindu? This is about personal faith. Why try to generalize it?"
"I am also referring to my allies. If they're saying this, I don't agree with this kind of politics. There are much bigger issues to address than talking about Hindus and Muslims," Paswan added.
The issue of namaz being offered on the streets and in public spaces has become a significant political topic in recent years. While some argue that religious practices should not be carried out in public, others believe it should not be an issue unless it causes inconvenience.
Recently, the topic gained attention after district administrations in parts of Uttar Pradesh took a stricter approach to preventing namaz on the streets during Eid. This comes amid opposition from Muslim organizations to the Centre's Waqf Amendment Bill.
