Owaisi’s “Hijab-Wearing Woman as PM” Remark Sparks Political Row Ahead of Maharashtra Civic Polls
AIMIM chief’s Solapur speech on constitutional equality draws sharp criticism from BJP leaders.
A political controversy erupted on January 9, 2026, after AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi made a striking remark during an election rally in Solapur, Maharashtra, ahead of the January 15 civic body elections.
Addressing supporters, Owaisi highlighted what he described as the inclusive nature of India’s Constitution. He said the Constitution, framed under the leadership of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, allows citizens from all communities to dream of holding the country’s highest offices.
Comparing India with Pakistan, Owaisi claimed that Pakistan’s Constitution restricts positions like Prime Minister and President to people from a single community. In contrast, he said, India’s secular framework ensures equal opportunity for all, regardless of religion or personal identity.
During his speech, Owaisi said it was his dream that one day a hijab-wearing woman would become the Prime Minister of India. He added that while he may not live to see that day, such a future is possible and inevitable in a truly democratic and secular country.
The statement quickly drew criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). BJP MP Anil Bonde called the remarks “irresponsible” and accused Owaisi of presenting a misleading narrative. Bonde referred to protests by women in Iran against compulsory hijab laws, arguing that many Muslim women oppose what he described as enforced practices.
Bonde also raised concerns about what he termed a growing demographic imbalance in India and called for greater unity among Hindus. Other BJP leaders joined the criticism, questioning why Owaisi does not promote similar leadership within his own party and asserting that India’s identity is rooted in Hindu culture.
The exchange comes at a time of intense political campaigning in Maharashtra, where AIMIM is contesting several seats in the local body elections. The debate has once again brought issues of constitutional equality, religious freedom, and political representation into the national spotlight.
