“Stop Depending on Gandhi-Nehru Names, Build Your Own Leadership”: Owaisi’s Message in Azamgarh

AIMIM chief targets Akhilesh Yadav over alleged political exploitation of Muslims, questions detentions of young protesters and calls for independent political representation

(SDNA) Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh: All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi has called on people to develop their own political leadership rather than blindly following established political figures. Addressing a public meeting in Azamgarh, he argued that communities must strengthen their own leadership and assert their political rights instead of relying on leaders who invoke the legacy of figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.

Speaking at a rally in Amaura, Owaisi appealed for support for his party’s candidates ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. He stressed that people should not feel compelled to follow a leader merely because that person compares themselves with prominent figures from India’s political history.

Emphasising political independence, the AIMIM president said communities needed to identify and nurture leaders from within their own ranks who could raise their concerns effectively.

Owaisi Accuses Akhilesh Yadav of Using Muslim Support

Owaisi launched a sharp attack on Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav, accusing him of using Muslim voters to gain political power without ensuring what Owaisi described as equal rights and adequate representation for the community.

He also criticised the political approaches of both the Samajwadi Party and the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

In a combative challenge directed at the two leaders, Owaisi reportedly suggested that Yogi Adityanath should contest an election from Sambhal and Akhilesh Yadav from Gorakhpur. His remarks added a confrontational edge to his address as political parties prepare for the next electoral contest.

Questions Raised Over Detention of Young Protesters in Delhi

The AIMIM chief also referred to a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, criticising restrictions imposed on demonstrators and raising concerns over the detention of young people.

He argued that measures such as restricting transport or imposing limitations in the national capital should not be allowed to weaken the determination of young people and women seeking to raise their concerns.

His remarks brought the issue of protest rights and the treatment of demonstrators into the broader political discussion, although the specific circumstances surrounding the detentions would need to be assessed separately.

Independent Political Representation at the Centre of His Message

Owaisi’s address appeared aimed at encouraging voters to reconsider established political loyalties and demand stronger representation from leaders who directly address their concerns.

By targeting Akhilesh Yadav and criticising restrictions on protesters, the AIMIM chief sought to position his party as an alternative voice in the political debate over representation, accountability and civil liberties.

As the next Assembly elections approach, such statements are likely to contribute to the wider contest among political parties seeking to consolidate their support bases in Uttar Pradesh.

(SDNA) — Political Desk