Assam CM Responds to Owaisi's Statement on Hijab-Wearing Prime Minister

Himanta Biswa Sarma's Remarks on Prime Ministerial Eligibility

On Saturday, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed comments made by AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi regarding a hijab-wearing woman potentially becoming Prime Minister. Sarma stated that while constitutionally it is feasible, India, being a Hindu nation, will always have a Hindu as its Prime Minister. He emphasized during a media interaction that there are no legal barriers preventing anyone from becoming Prime Minister, but he firmly believes that the leadership of India will remain with Hindus.

Owaisi's Vision for Inclusivity

Earlier, Owaisi highlighted the inclusivity of the Indian Constitution, expressing his belief that one day a hijab-wearing daughter will lead the country as Prime Minister. Speaking at an election rally in Solapur, Maharashtra, he contrasted this with Pakistan's constitution, which he claimed restricts individuals of other faiths from holding high office. Owaisi asserted that the Indian Constitution allows any citizen to aspire to roles such as Prime Minister, Chief Minister, or Mayor, and he dreams of a hijab-wearing woman achieving this position.

Political Context and Reactions

These statements come amid intense campaigning for the upcoming municipal elections in Mumbai, scheduled for January 15, with results to be announced the following day. BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala sharply criticized Owaisi's remarks, challenging him to appoint a 'Pasmanda' Muslim or a hijab-wearing woman as the president of AIMIM. Poonawala took to social media, stating that while Owaisi claims a hijab-wearing woman will become Prime Minister, he dares him to first make such an appointment within his party.