Bukhari to Modi: take into account all religions

New Delhi: The country may face a spell of ‘‘communalism’’ with the BJP set to form the next government at the centre, said Syed Ahmed Bukhari, Shahi Imam of Delhi.

“It is likely that we will be moving towards communalism,” said Bukahri.

He added that the ‘division of the secular vote’ contributed to the improved performance of the BJP.

“The new government has to decide whether it will will follow its own agenda or the the constitution. If it follows the former, it poses a danger to the country,” said Bukhari. He also appealed to the new government to place the country and its development before any other agenda.

“Take into account all religions before making any decision. The country cannot be run by breaking hearts,” Bukahri told IANS.

Asked if he feared discrimination of the minorities during the BJP rule, Bukhari said, “There are no two opinions that since the 2002 Gujarat riots, the Muslim community does not like Narendra Modi and that sentiment stays. Only time will tell what he gives or does not give to the minorities.”

IANS