For Lalu and Nitish, a Muslim conundrum

Qasmi has served as spokesperson in Islamic seminary Darul Uloom, Deoband between 1999-2006. Regarded as progressive, he also launched and headed the online fatwa section in Deoband.

[related-post]

“We will wait till they declare the tickets. If representation of Muslim is poor, we will start campaigning against them in Muslim-dominated areas and expose them. Many important clerics from India will be part of my agitation,” Qasmi said.
He added that he has received support from Barelvi cleric Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, who reportedly will tour Bihar during the elections, and other quarters.

“We are not contesting the Assembly polls. But we will ensure that our supporters and other Muslims are adjusted in ticket distribution by RJD and JD(U). Else, we cannot support them,” Qasmi told The Indian Express.

He added that he is busy organising meetings and mobilising the community. “We have become victims of their policies. Lalu did not field a single Muslim candidate among 10 MLC candidates. Still, he wants Muslim votes. Now, it will be a bargain,” said Qasmi.

Qasmi has also started deliberations with other smaller parties in Bihar. “Already, I have held a series of meetings with NCP, MP Pappu Yadav and Bhartiya Mukti Party. Asaduddin Owaisi of AIMIM was also in the loop but he withdrew from Bihar polls. We want to defeat BJP… it is not necessary that only RJD-JD(U) can do it. Other smaller parties unitedly can also tilt the balance,” he said.