Muslims Are Citizens of This Nation—Or Declare Otherwise: MLA Rizwan Arshad Slams BJP’s ‘Halal Budget’ Remarks
Bengaluru: A heated debate erupted in the Karnataka Assembly as Congress MLA Rizwan Arshad strongly condemned the BJP’s characterization of the state budget as a “Muslim Budget,” “Halal Budget,” and “Muslim League Budget.” Expressing his outrage, Arshad demanded clarity on whether Muslims are considered rightful citizens of India or if they should be declared otherwise.
‘Are We Not Citizens of This Nation?’
During the budget discussion on Wednesday, Rizwan Arshad lashed out at opposition leaders for their divisive rhetoric.
“Are we not part of this society? Are we not taxpayers? Do we not contribute to the national exchequer? If not, then declare that Muslims are not human beings, that we are not fit to live in this society, that we do not exist,” Arshad stated, visibly angered by the communal branding of the budget.
‘We Are Sons of This Soil’
Directly addressing BJP members, Arshad reminded them that Indian Muslims were not outsiders but an integral part of the nation’s fabric.
“We are not from some foreign land. We are your brothers, the sons of this very soil. Many among us converted generations ago from the same backward and Dalit communities. Yet, even after knowing this, you refuse to show us empathy,” he asserted.
BJP Leader Yatnal’s Controversial Interjection
As tensions escalated, BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal made inflammatory remarks, alleging that “stone-pelters and rioters are from your community” and accused Muslims of driving Hindus out of Pakistan. The exchange sparked an uproar in the assembly.
‘Muslim Youth Should Carry the Quran in One Hand, a Computer in the Other’
In response to Arshad’s statement citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for Muslim youth—“One hand should hold the Quran, and the other a computer”—Yatnal countered provocatively, claiming, “They are holding AK-47s instead.” This further fueled tensions on the assembly floor.
Misleading Narratives and Dangerous Polarization
Arshad also debunked the claim that the Karnataka budget was exclusively benefiting Muslims, emphasizing that the state’s minority population stands at 16% and the ₹4,100 crore allocated is meant for all minorities, not just Muslims.
“Out of a ₹4.10 lakh crore budget, ₹4,100 crore is allocated for minorities—this is not just for Muslims. Yet, the opposition deliberately spreads falsehoods to create division. Does every rupee from the budget go to Muslims? Has the government reserved everything for us? What kind of false message is this?” he questioned.
‘Divisive Politics Will Destroy Social Harmony’
The Congress leader warned that the BJP’s communal rhetoric could have grave consequences for the state and the country at large.
“Statements like these plant seeds of hatred and ignite fires in society. How will we unite our communities if such narratives continue? How can we progress as a nation if we are constantly divided? If we poison social harmony today, Karnataka’s dignity will be tarnished, and internationally, what message will we send?” he said, urging an end to divisive politics.
A Plea for Tolerance and Equality
Concluding his address, Rizwan Arshad made a heartfelt appeal for fairness and unity. “Muslims receive only 1% of what is rightfully theirs. Even that is being vilified in the worst way possible. I humbly request—please stop this discrimination.”
Quotes:
🗣 “If you think Muslims are not citizens, then declare it openly!” – MLA Rizwan Arshad
🗣 “We are children of this land. We contribute, we pay taxes, and we have a right to exist with dignity.” – Rizwan Arshad
🗣 “Divisive narratives will only weaken our country. We must unite, not divide.” – Rizwan Arshad
Q&As:
Q: What did Rizwan Arshad say in the Karnataka Assembly?
A: He lashed out at BJP leaders for calling the budget a “Muslim Budget” and asked whether Muslims were not rightful citizens of India.
Q: Why was the budget called a “Muslim Budget” by the opposition?
A: The BJP alleged that the budget disproportionately benefited the Muslim community, a claim refuted by the Congress, stating that allocations were made for all minorities.
Q: How did BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal respond?
A: He countered Arshad’s speech with inflammatory remarks, further intensifying the debate.
Q: What is the larger implication of this debate?
A: The incident highlights the ongoing communal polarization in Karnataka’s political discourse.
Context & Background:
The Karnataka state budget faced criticism from the opposition, alleging that it favored Muslims disproportionately. In response, Congress MLA Rizwan Arshad defended the allocations, stating that the budget served all communities, not just Muslims. He urged for unity instead of divisive politics, questioning the intent behind such communal narratives.
Quick Summary:
During the Karnataka Assembly session, MLA Rizwan Arshad strongly condemned the BJP’s labeling of the state budget as a “Muslim Budget” and “Halal Budget.” Expressing his frustration, he questioned whether Muslims were not rightful citizens of the country. His remarks sparked a heated debate, with BJP MLA Basangouda Patil Yatnal responding with controversial counterclaims, escalating tensions in the House.
