‘I’m getting threats because I’m Muslim,’ says Maulana Sajid Rashidi, who made controversial remarks on Dimple Yadav

Controversial cleric Sajid Rashidi refuses to apologize for mosque dress code comments, alleges death threats and Hindu leader bias. SP faces dilemma balancing Muslim votes and women’s dignity as BJP watches keenly. Political storm escalates over religious sanctity vs gender respect debate.

New Delhi: Maulana Sajid Rashidi's controversial statement in Parliament regarding Dimple Yadav's entry into the mosque has created a big political storm. In this case, SP MP Iqra Hasan has taken a tough stand against the Maulana and demanded his boycott, while SP workers in Lucknow have lodged an FIR against him.

Defends Himself

However, instead of apologizing for his statement, the Maulana has strengthened it further. He argues that the mosque is a holy place and one should go there in the right dress. He described the use of the word 'nude' as normal and said that similar comments are often made in society even when girls wear shorts. The Maulana called it a conspiracy to insult the Muslim community and alleged that all this is being done to humiliate them.

Described himself as a 'thekedar of Islam

Rashidi gave a constitutional argument and said that every religion has the right to propagate its beliefs. He says that if someone disrespects the mosque, it is his right to interrupt him. Also, he alleged double standards and said that when Hindu religious leaders make controversial statements, no action is taken against them.

Calling himself a target, the Maulana made serious allegations that he is receiving death threats and even talks of raping his daughter are being made. He directly accused Akhilesh Yadav of sponsoring these attacks. Describing himself as a 'thekedar of Islam,' Rashidi made it clear that he will continue to talk about the sanctity of mosques.

Confounded SP

This entire controversy has put the SP in a difficult situation. On the one hand, the party does not want to anger the Muslim vote bank, while on the other hand, it is also forced to maintain the respect of women leaders. Akhilesh Yadav's silence is making the matter more complicated. Analysts believe that the BJP can use this issue as a narrative of Muslim appeasement.

Comparing himself to the case of misbehavior with a woman on the highway, the Maulana said that there was less reaction in that case, while there is more uproar over his comment. This controversy is no longer limited to just a statement but has become a symbol of the conflict of religious sentiments, political strategies, and social values.