Iltija Mufti, daughter of PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, courted controversy on Sunday by terming Hindutva a "disease" that tarnishes Hinduism and fuels violence against minorities. Her remarks on social media and during a public event in Jammu drew sharp criticism from the BJP, which demanded an apology for her “derogatory” statements.
In a post on X, Iltija condemned an incident where a Muslim man was assaulted for refusing to chant a Hindu slogan. “Hindutva is a disease that has afflicted millions and sullied a god’s name,” she wrote, arguing that Hindutva ideology, unlike Hinduism, promotes hatred and division.
Addressing reporters, she drew a clear distinction between Hindutva and Hinduism, calling the latter a religion of compassion and secularism. “Hindutva stems from Savarkar’s vision of Hindu hegemony and is being exploited by the BJP to further its political agenda,” she asserted, adding that mob violence in the name of religion defames the nation.
BJP Dismiss Mufti's Remarks As Inflammatory
The BJP dismissed her comments as inflammatory and accused her of stoking communal discord. Ravinder Raina, a former J&K BJP president, claimed Iltija’s remarks were based on a doctored video, alleging a conspiracy to divide Hindus and Muslims
Iltija Criticises BJP For Targeting Rohingya Muslims
Iltija also criticised the BJP for targeting Rohingya Muslims by cutting off basic utilities in Jammu, while ignoring the plight of Kashmiri Pandits living in squalid conditions.
“India belongs to all, whether Hindu or Muslim,” she stated, calling for accountability on rising crimes against minorities.
The BJP reiterated its stance that Rohingya refugees must return to Myanmar, citing improved conditions in their homeland. The party also warned against “politicising sensitive religious issues.” The row underscores the deepening divide over Hindutva’s role in India’s political and social discourse.
