
Sun Feb 15 04:04:57 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Owaisi Condemns “Food Jihad” Harassment, Accuses RSS and BJP of Imposing Singular Ideology
The Story
On February 14, 2026, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi strongly condemned the harassment of a kova bun vendor at the Medaram jatara by YouTubers, labeling it an attempt to create trouble under the guise of “food jihad.” Speaking at the 68th Revival Day celebrations of the AIMIM, Owaisi demanded police action against the YouTubers and accused the RSS and BJP of attempting to impose a singular ideology that rejects constitutional values in favor of the Manusmriti.
Owaisi also addressed the upcoming SIR exercise, urging people in Telangana to ensure genuine names are included, alleging the BJP aims to remove citizenship rights through the SIR, rather than the NRC or NPR. Further, the AIMIM president announced the party’s intention to contest elections in Uttar Pradesh, emphasizing the need for independent political leadership for Muslims and Dalits.
Key Points
- Asaduddin Owaisi condemned the harassment of a kova bun vendor at the Medaram jatara.
- He accused the YouTubers of attempting to create trouble under the guise of “food jihad”.
- Owaisi targeted the RSS and BJP, alleging they seek to impose a singular ideology and reject constitutional values.
- He referenced historical figures like Maulvi Allauddin and Turrabaz Khan, challenging the RSS to name members martyred in the struggle against colonial rule in Hyderabad.
- Owaisi announced the AIMIM would contest elections in Uttar Pradesh.
- He warned about the potential misuse of the upcoming SIR exercise to remove citizenship rights.
Critical Analysis
The narrative is consistent with Owaisi’s established political positions and the AIMIM’s focus on representing Muslim and marginalized communities’ interests. The timing of the speech during the AIMIM’s Revival Day celebrations provides a platform for reasserting the party’s core principles and historical role. The reference to “food jihad” harassment aligns with existing concerns about the targeting of Muslim vendors and businesses in India. Similarly, the accusations against the RSS and BJP regarding a singular ideology and the alleged misuse of the SIR are consistent with previous criticisms of government policies perceived as discriminatory towards Muslims. The announcement of contesting elections in Uttar Pradesh is a strategic move to expand the AIMIM’s political influence beyond its traditional stronghold in Hyderabad.
Key Takeaways
- The event highlights the ongoing tensions between religious groups and the use of social media to amplify such tensions.
- The political rhetoric surrounding constitutional values and inclusivity remains a contentious issue in Indian politics.
- The AIMIM is actively attempting to expand its political footprint beyond its traditional base.
- Concerns about the fairness and potential biases of citizenship verification processes persist.
- The news story highlights the continued importance of historical narratives in shaping contemporary political discourse.