Rohingya: Mamman Khan, a prominent Congress candidate, has made headlines following his remarkable victory in the Jhirka assembly seat in Nuh, Haryana. Winning by a staggering margin of 98,441 votes, Khan secured 1,30,497 votes in total, significantly outpacing his nearest rival from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Naseem Ahmed, who received only 32,056 votes.
However, this electoral success is overshadowed by serious allegations against Khan. He is currently facing charges under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) for his purported involvement in inciting communal violence during an incident in Nuh on July 31, 2023, which resulted in multiple fatalities.
Rohingya: Controversial Support Base
Khan’s victory can be partly attributed to substantial backing from the local Muslim community, which constitutes approximately 80% of Nuh’s population. Reports indicate that he also garnered support from illegal Rohingya immigrants residing in the area. Following the violence, law enforcement arrested several Rohingya refugees suspected of participating in the unrest.
On October 7, a video released by Organiser Weekly highlighted concerns regarding a madarsa allegedly catering to these illegal immigrants. In the footage, children were heard making alarming statements about non-believers. The teachers at this madarsa openly acknowledged their illegal status and expressed pride in their presence in India.
Rohingya: Implications for Congress
The situation raises critical questions for the Congress party. Analysts are pondering whether the party is intentionally aligning itself with these communities for electoral gains. The implications of this strategy could be significant amid ongoing communal tensions and scrutiny over immigration policies. Observers are curious if Congress will clarify its stance regarding the Rohingya community’s role in Khan’s electoral success and whether it will address the broader issues surrounding illegal immigration and communal harmony in Nuh.
As Mamman Khan begins his new term amid these controversies, the political landscape in Haryana remains charged with questions about accountability and community dynamics.