AIMIM’s attempt to nominate Shahrukh Pathan, accused in Delhi riots, for assembly elections

(AIMIM: All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen)

New Delhi – Shoaib Jamai, Delhi head of MP Asaduddin Owaisi’s AIMIM, has reportedly met the family of Shahrukh Pathan, an accused in the Delhi riots. There is speculation in political circles that AIMIM might consider nominating Pathan as a candidate for the upcoming assembly elections. Pathan is currently in jail.

In a post on ‘X’, Shoaib Jamai stated, “I recently visited the home of Shahrukh Pathan’s mother. Our Party delegation met his family to discuss their situation and legal assistance. This small step in our campaign aims to support families whose children have been in jail for years. According to the Supreme Court, undertrials have a right to bail.” Pathan’s mother remarked, “A case was registered against my son at Arvind Kejriwal’s behest, and I cannot forget this.”

Background

On 24 February 2020, during the Delhi riots in the Maujpur-Jafrabad area, Shahrukh Pathan was seen threatening Police Constable Deepak Dahiya with a pistol. This incident was widely shared on social media through photographs.

The riots, which erupted on 20 February 2020 over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), resulted in at least 53 fatalities in Northeast Delhi.

Reactions

Hindu organisations have criticised AIMIM, stating that the Party’s actions reveal its intent. They have demanded a ban on parties that support individuals accused of such acts.

Editorial Perspective

The mindset of a party attempting to nominate an individual who threatened a Police Constable with a pistol becomes evident. Hindu organisations should demand a ban on such parties.