Owaisi’s message: Suicide bombing is an act of terror

ASADUDDIN Owaisi, arguably the most vocal Muslim politician in India today, has stuck his neck out — and he must be commended for doing that. An undated video clip in which Red Fort suicide bomber Dr Umar un Nabi justified suicide bombings as ‘martyrdom’ has drawn a sharp reaction from the Hyderabad MP, who heads the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM). Owaisi has asserted that suicide is ‘haram’ (prohibited) in Islam and the killing of innocents is a grave sin. He has also made it clear that there is no question of ‘misunderstanding’ such acts — they are against the law of the land, and constitute nothing but terrorism.

Owaisi has sent a strong message to terrorists, their sympathisers and handlers — acts of terror cannot be glorified or justified on any grounds. Those who spill blood in the name of Islam — or any other religion, for that matter — should pay heed to his words, which can be of help to counter the growing menace of radicalisation. Once stripped of its illusory halo, often created by inflammatory videos and speeches, a suicide bombing is simply an unpardonable act of wanton violence that should be condemned by one and all.

It’s heartening that in a nation where unscrupulous politicians fan the flames, there are some like Owaisi who talk sense. During India’s global outreach following Op Sindoor, he had ridiculed Pakistan for presuming that it could rely on Islam to win over Indian Muslims. The bottom line is that the minority community, barring some black sheep, continues to swear by the Tricolour. Owaisi and other leaders should strongly dispel the misconception that Muslims based in India are not trustworthy. The Centre and states should have a zero-tolerance approach — not only regarding terrorism but also towards those who brand every Muslim as a terrorist or a traitor.