Iltija mufti over hindutva: Iltija Mufti’s Controversial Statement “Hindutva is a Disease”, Sparks Political Uproar; BJP Attacks.
Iltija Mufti, daughter of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, has sparked controversy by calling Hindutva a “disease.” She attributed its proliferation to Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and claimed that slogans like “Jai Shri Ram” are now associated with mob lynching. Her remarks have triggered a strong backlash, with BJP leaders condemning her statement.
The Controversial Statement
On Sunday, Iltija Mufti posted on social media, describing Hindutva as a harmful ideology. She said, “Hindutva is a disease that has tarnished the name of God and impacted millions of Indians. It is distinct from Hinduism, which promotes peace and harmony. Hindutva, on the other hand, is about propagating Hindu dominance.”
She went on to blame Savarkar for spreading the ideology in the 1940s, saying, “Hindutva promotes hatred, claiming India belongs only to Hindus. In contrast, Hinduism, like Islam, emphasizes secularism, love, and compassion. We must preserve the true essence of Hinduism and prevent its deliberate distortion.”
Connection to “Jai Shri Ram” Slogans
Iltija also criticized the use of “Jai Shri Ram” slogans, claiming they are no longer a call for Ram Rajya (the ideal rule of Ram) but have been misused to justify violence under the banner of Hindutva. Sharing a video where a Muslim youth was allegedly assaulted for refusing to chant the slogan, she said, “This would make even Lord Ram bow his head in shame and helplessness. It is tragic and disgraceful that Hinduism is being defamed and distorted.”
BJP’s Response
The BJP has strongly condemned Iltija’s comments. Party leader Ravinder Raina called her remarks “deeply offensive” and demanded an immediate apology. He stated, “Disagreements in politics are acceptable, but using derogatory language against a community or faith is not justified. Iltija Mufti must apologize for her insulting remarks about Hindus.”
Iltija Mufti’s Background
Iltija gained public attention in 2019 when her mother, Mehbooba Mufti, was detained following the abrogation of Article 370. During that time, Iltija managed her mother’s social media accounts and voiced her opinions against the central government. Recently, she played a significant role in leading the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. However, the party’s performance was lackluster, and Iltija herself lost her seat in Bijbehara.
Iltija’s latest comments have further ignited a political debate, with Hindutva and Hinduism being central to the discourse. Her remarks have fueled criticism from the BJP and others, making it a contentious issue ahead of the upcoming elections.
