Umrah Pilgrims Return: Jilani Lauds Centre, Rijiju Congratulated
New Delhi, October 23: BJP leader Yasser Jilani has lauded the Central government's efforts to bring Umrah pilgrims back to India, while also commenting on several other political issues. He also congratulated Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju for the initiative. Jilani's reactions addressed the Kerala Lok Bhavan vegetarian kitchen row, PM Modi's call for unity, India's response to Pakistan at the United Nations, and Speaker Om Birla's comments on the notice to remove the Chief Election Commissioner.
Jilani said that Congress's politics seems confined to complaints and criticism. In the Kerala Lok Bhavan controversy over a vegetarian kitchen, he argued that if someone is vegetarian and wants the entire system to remain vegetarian, Congress should discuss other important subjects. He said the Governor took the decision within his jurisdiction at the Lok Bhavan.
He further accused Congress leader KC Venugopal of being concerned about the party's Muslim vote bank and appeasement politics. Turning such issues into political disputes, he said, puts Congress itself under question.
Backing PM Narendra Modi's appeal to remain united against forces that divide society, Jilani described the Prime Minister's message as completely right. He claimed that some individuals are trying to spread anarchy in the name of agitation. Taking aim at Congress and Rahul Gandhi, he alleged that the opposition wants to strengthen its political standing by using the shoulders of youth. He added that the opposition lacks adequate public backing and a strong organisation, so it tries to polarise society.
According to Jilani, society should remain cautious about such forces and question their intentions. He said the public supports the unity message conveyed by PM Modi.
On the return of Umrah pilgrims to India, Jilani praised the Centre's efforts following a statement by Kiren Rijiju. He said many Indian Umrah pilgrims were trapped in Jeddah and the Gulf region of Saudi Arabia because of attacks and security conditions. The government, he said, helped make appropriate arrangements for their safe return. So far, about three thousand Umrah pilgrims have reached India through available flights, while the Indian embassy is keeping an eye on others who remain there. The government is monitoring the situation and working to bring all pilgrims home safely. Jilani congratulated Rijiju for the initiative and said helping citizens during a crisis is the government's responsibility.
Regarding India's reply to Pakistan at the United Nations, Jilani said Pakistan tries to influence global sentiments by raising religion-based issues on international platforms. He said that whenever terrorist infiltration and attacks in India cost lives and damage the social fabric, Pakistan avoids discussing these issues. He noted that India is presenting its case strongly at the UN and exposing Pakistan's role before the international community.
On Speaker Om Birla's comments about the notice to remove the Chief Election Commissioner, Jilani said the entire matter falls under a prescribed legal process. The Speaker has presented his view, and concerned parties should now await further action as per procedure. Those who have questioned the absence of a government response, he said, should show patience until the situation becomes clear.