Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind chief Maulana Arshad Madani has ignited a political controversy by alleging that the Indian government is actively working against the interests of Muslims. Madani's remarks, made on Sunday, November 23, 2025, referenced the ongoing investigations into Al Falah University and the imprisonment of politician Azam Khan. He argued that these situations exemplify a systemic bias against Muslims in India, suggesting that the government is ensuring Muslims can never rise to positions of power.
Madani's comments came in the context of increased scrutiny of Al Falah University, which has been linked to suspects in the recent Delhi Red Fort blast. The founder of the university, Jawad Siddiqui, is currently in Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody amid allegations of money laundering and terror financing. Madani questioned the targeting of the university, stating, "Look at what is happening today in Al-Falah," and alluded to the potential for Siddiqui to face a lengthy imprisonment.
Countering the narrative that Muslims are becoming marginalized globally, Madani pointed to examples of Muslims holding prominent positions in other countries. He cited Zohran Mamdani's election as mayor of New York City and Sadiq Khan's position as mayor of London. Madani contrasted these examples with the perceived lack of opportunity for Muslims in India, claiming that "no one can even become a university vice chancellor" and even if they did, "they will be sent to jail".
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly condemned Madani's statements, accusing him of giving a communal color to the Delhi blast probe, misleading the Muslim community, and playing "blame-game politics". BJP leaders like Mohsin Raza have alleged that Madani and his family have historically exploited Muslims while failing to promote their development, despite receiving minority grants. Shehzad Poonawalla, a BJP spokesperson, labeled Madani as "bhaijaan of appeasement" and accused him of being part of an "aatanki bachao jamaat (save terrorists group)". Yaser Jilani, another BJP leader, insisted that India is the safest and most supportive place for Muslims, dismissing Madani's claims as confusing.
Conversely, the Congress party has voiced support for Madani's concerns. Congress leader Udit Raj stated that Muslims "are facing discrimination" and criticized the targeting of Al Falah University. Raj asserted that while terrorism should not be forgiven, the university should not be targeted, and Muslim homes should not be bulldozed. Ghanshyam Tiwari, a Samajwadi Party spokesperson, called for the Prime Minister to address the issue and provide clarification.
Maulana Mahmood Madani has served as a Member of Parliament and is recognized as an influential Islamic scholar who consistently condemns terrorism. Through the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, he has worked to combat Islamophobia and provide aid to victims of various crises. His recent remarks, however, have sparked a heated debate about the state of Muslims in India and the government's role in their progress.
