While taking his parliamentary oath, AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi ended with the words "Jai Palestine", sparking criticism from Union Ministers G Kishan Reddy and Kiren Rijiju. Reddy labelled the statement as against the rules of the House and stated that Owaisi does not say "Bharat Mata ki Jai" while living in India. Rijiju also expressed his disapproval, stating that praising another country during the oath-taking ceremony is inappropriate. Meanwhile, Owaisi defended his statement, citing Mahatma Gandhi's views on Palestine and the ongoing conflict in the region.
Asaduddin Owaisi's "Jai Palestine" Oath Stirs Controversy
Background
Asaduddin Owaisi, the president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), sparked controversy on June 21st, 2021, when he ended his oath-taking speech in parliament with the phrase "Jai Palestine." The oath-taking ceremony was being held following the elections to the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India's parliament.
Controversy
Owaisi's statement drew criticism from several Union Ministers, including G Kishan Reddy and Kiren Rijiju. Reddy labeled the statement as against the rules of the House and noted that Owaisi does not say "Bharat Mata ki Jai" (Victory to Mother India) while living in India. Rijiju also expressed his disapproval, stating that praising another country during the oath-taking ceremony is inappropriate.
Owaisi's Defense
Owaisi defended his statement, citing Mahatma Gandhi's views on Palestine. Gandhi had expressed support for the Palestinian cause during the Indian independence movement. Owaisi also pointed to the ongoing conflict in the region as a reason for his statement.
Reactions
The controversy has sparked a debate on social media and among political parties. Some have criticized Owaisi for his statement, while others have defended him. Various religious and political organizations have also weighed in, with some condemning Owaisi's actions and others supporting him.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between "Jai Palestine" and "Bharat Mata ki Jai"? "Jai Palestine" means "Victory to Palestine" while "Bharat Mata ki Jai" means "Victory to Mother India." Both phrases are expressions of support and patriotism for their respective countries.
2. Why did Owaisi say "Jai Palestine" in parliament? Owaisi cited Mahatma Gandhi's views on Palestine and the ongoing conflict in the region as reasons for his statement.
3. Is it against the rules to say "Jai Palestine" in parliament? No, there is no specific rule against saying "Jai Palestine" in parliament. However, some have argued that it is inappropriate to praise another country during the oath-taking ceremony.
4. What has been the reaction to Owaisi's statement? The controversy has sparked a debate on social media and among political parties. Some have criticized Owaisi for his statement, while others have defended him.
5. What is the status of the conflict between Israel and Palestine? The conflict between Israel and Palestine is a long-standing dispute that has spanned several decades. It involves territorial claims, religious tensions, and political instability. The conflict has resulted in violence and displacement of civilians.
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