All India Imam Association President, Maulana Sajid Rashidi, faced criticism for suggesting that delayed marriages lead to rapes in Indian society. His remarks during a public interaction stirred strong reactions, with Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission Chairperson, Babita Chauhan, condemning his statement as reflecting a “narrow mindset.” Chauhan emphasized the achievements of Indian women and criticized such regressive views.
Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) spokesperson Vinod Bansal denounced Maulana Rashidi’s statement, labeling it as indicative of a biased mindset. Bansal stressed the equal rights of all women in India and called for an apology from Rashidi, urging the National Commission for Women (NCW) to take action against him for his controversial comments.
Political leaders also weighed in on the issue, with BJP leader Ram Kadam dismissing the cleric’s opinion as baseless and emphasizing that the age of marriage should be a personal choice. Another BJP leader, Pratul Shahdeo, strongly condemned Rashidi’s remarks, questioning if he was justifying rape and calling for his immediate arrest. Hanuman Garhi priest Debesh Acharya echoed similar sentiments, criticizing the Maulana’s disturbing views and emphasizing the need to reject such regressive mentalities across all religions.
