27.11.12

Some Signs of Change


An umbrella body of Muslim organizations has acknowledged “some signs of change” in Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi’s attitude but laid down stiff conditions, including an apology and “expression of sorrow” for the 2002 riots, before extending him support “in rebuilding Gujarat”.
The Joint Committee of Muslim Organizations for Empowerment comprises 10 national Muslim outfits. Its chairman Syed Shahabuddin noted that the BJP and Modi were giving special attention to Muslim voters ahead of the Gujarat assembly polls, but said the community in the state and elsewhere in the country had not forgotten the 2002 massacre. He asked Modi to offer at least 20 tickets to Muslims acceptable to the community in seats where they constitute more than 20% of the electorate instead of repeatedly announcing his faith in secularism.
“This would give the community representation according to its population (10%) in the state. Token nomination of one or two Muslims personally known to you will not do,” Shahabuddin said.
“Alternatively,” the former IFS officer wrote, “the Muslim leadership will advise Muslims not to divide their votes and vote massively and unitedly for one candidate, irrespective of party or religion, who is likely to defeat the BJP.”

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