Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP Imran Masood has criticised Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his recent remarks on the religious identity of the Prime Minister, saying the Chief Minister should be mindful of his language while making public statements.
Masood’s reaction came in response to Sarma’s comment suggesting that although the Constitution does not bar anyone from becoming Prime Minister, India’s civilisational character as a Hindu nation implies that the country will always have a Hindu Prime Minister. The remark has triggered a political row, drawing sharp reactions from opposition leaders.
Speaking to reporters, Masood said the Constitution of India clearly provides equal opportunity to all citizens, irrespective of religion, to hold any constitutional post, including that of the Prime Minister. He questioned whether religion finds any mention as a qualification in the Constitution and asserted that leadership positions in a democracy cannot be determined by faith.
The Congress leader also pointed out that India’s political history itself contradicts such claims, noting that the country has previously been led by leaders from different religious backgrounds, reflecting the secular and inclusive nature of the Constitution.
Masood further said that individuals holding constitutional offices, particularly Chief Ministers, should exercise restraint and responsibility in their choice of words, as such statements could have wider social and political implications.
Sarma’s remarks have drawn criticism from several opposition parties, who argue that they undermine the constitutional principle of secularism. The Assam Chief Minister’s supporters, however, have defended his comments, describing them as an expression of cultural belief rather than a constitutional interpretation.
The controversy has once again brought the debate over secularism, identity and constitutional values to the forefront of national political discourse.
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