SP’s ‘unkept’ promises prompt Shahi Imam to warn Mulayam

Lucknow, May 19

Shahi Imam of Delhi’s Jama Masjid Maulana Ahmad Bukhari today warned Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav that if did not deliver, it might face defeat in the 2017 elections.

“In its manifesto ahead of the 2012 Assembly polls, the SP made 16 promises to Muslims for uplifting them economically, socially and educationally. Unfortunately, three years have passed and none of the promises have been met,” Bukhari said in a letter.

He said the party had neither taken any action on the recommendations of the Sachar Committee, Rangnath and Nimesh Commissions, nor has it appointed any Urdu-knowing person despite making an announcement to make Urdu the second state language.

He said due to the party’s attitude towards Muslims, resentment was brewing and it could affect political prospects of the party in the upcoming polls.

Bukhari said organising special camps in Muslim-dominated areas for their recruitment in security forces was promised but no progress had been made in this regard.

“No step has been taken to withdraw terrorism charges on innocent Muslim youths, as promised by the party,” he said. — PTI