by: Dr. Nowhera Shaik
On June 25, 2024, Asaduddin Owaisi, after being sworn in as a Member of Lok Sabha representing the 9-Hyderabad Lok Sabha Parliamentary Constituency, raised the slogan “Jai Palestine.” Raising such a slogan immediately after his oath-taking ceremony is both illegal and unconstitutional and warrants his immediate disqualification. It is a blatant display of religious politics that must not be tolerated in a secular and democratic institution like Parliament.
The Indian Constitution, specifically Article 102(1)(d), states that a person is disqualified from being a Member of Parliament if they show allegiance or adherence to a foreign state. By raising the slogan “Jai Palestine,” Owaisi demonstrated support for a foreign entity which is a clear violation of the constitutional mandate. Parliamentarians are bound by a solemn duty to uphold the sovereignty and integrity of the nation. Their conduct and rhetoric must consistently reflect an unmatched commitment to national interests and constitutional values. The articulation of slogans that suggest allegiance to foreign entities, even as gestures of solidarity, are the violations of this duty.
Expressing sympathy with Palestinians is not wrong; in fact, it is a responsibility that many feel deeply. India has historically supported the Palestinian cause, and showing solidarity with them aligns with our values of justice and human rights. However, the question arises: why did Asaduddin Owaisi choose the parliamentary platform to raise the slogan “Jai Palestine”? The issue lies not in the sentiment of solidarity itself but in the context and timing of the expression. By raising the slogan immediately after taking his oath as a Member of Parliament, Owaisi diverted attention from his commitment to India. Parliament is a place for national concerns, and using it for international advocacy was inappropriate.
Owaisi’s choice of platform suggests an intent to project himself as a hero to certain sections of society. Shouting “Jai Palestine” in Parliament, especially at a time meant to affirm his allegiance to India, can be seen as a political move aimed at gaining popularity among specific groups rather than a genuine expression of solidarity.
The omission of “Jai Hind” in favor of “Jai Palestine” further complicates the issue. As a newly sworn-in Member of Parliament, his primary duty is to the Indian nation. Avoiding “Jai Hind,” a slogan symbolizing national pride and unity, raises questions about his priorities and loyalty. It sends a message that his allegiance might lie elsewhere, which is concerning. Parliament is a sacred institution where the nation’s interests are discussed and protected. By choosing this platform to make a political statement about Palestine, Owaisi not only disrespected the institution but also the solemn occasion of his swearing-in.
A significant portion of the Indian populace empathizes with the plight of Palestinians, However, the platform and context of such expressions are critical. The central issue with Owaisi’s action lies not in the sentiment of solidarity itself, but in the selection of the parliamentary platform for its expression. Parliament is a forum for national discourse and policy deliberation. Expressions of international solidarity within this context can blur the lines between personal sentiment and national allegiance. The maintenance of decorum within Parliament is significant for the effective functioning of democracy. It is important to remember that there are appropriate platforms and occasions for expressing international solidarity. Public forums, media, and civil society events are all suitable venues for such expressions. By using the parliamentary platform, Owaisi blurred the lines between national duties and personal or political agendas. While supporting the Palestinian cause is important and aligned with India’s values, the way and place in which Owaisi chose to express this support were misguided. His actions in Parliament suggest a desire to appear heroic rather than a sincere commitment to his parliamentary duties and national allegiance.
He has shown a blatant disregard for the responsibilities and decorum expected of a Member of Parliament. He has violated the constitutional requirement to prioritize national interests which is a serious breach of the rules that govern parliamentary conduct, so must be disqualified immediately. By prioritizing a foreign cause over national unity, he risks eroding public trust in the parliamentary system. His disqualification is necessary to prevent further damage to the institution’s integrity and to ensure that all members are committed to their primary duty to the nation. The Constitution provides a clear process for addressing such violations. Article 103 specifies that questions about disqualification should be referred to the President, who will seek the opinion of the Election Commission. Following this process is essential to uphold the rule of law and ensure fairness. So, immediate disqualification of Owaisi would also serve as a lesson to future parliamentarians about the importance of maintaining national interests above personal or political agendas.
Allowing Owaisi to remain in Parliament after such a blatant disregard for the rules would undermine the accountability expected of our elected officials. His immediate disqualification is essential to show that no one is above the law and that all members must adhere to the Constitution. His actions have shown a lack of respect for the institution and its protocols.
The move to disqualify Owaisi is not just about punishing one individual but about preserving the sanctity of our democratic institutions. It ensures that Parliament remains a place for constructive national dialogue and decision-making, free from personal and political distractions. Future parliamentarians will see the consequences of Owaisi’s actions and understand the importance of their role. It will be clear that their primary duty is to the nation, and any actions that suggest otherwise will be met with strict repercussions. So, Asaduddin Owaisi’s immediate disqualification is necessary to uphold the principles of our Constitution, maintain the integrity of Parliament, and ensure that all members remain focused on their national responsibilities.
Asaduddin Owaisi is not above the Constitution and Nation. By raising the slogan “Jai Palestine”, he tried to shift the focus away from his duty to India and create a new narrative. He all-time prioritizes personal or political gain over national interests. Parliament is a sacred institution dedicated to discuss India’s concerns, not a platform for personal agendas. Disqualifying Owaisi is essential to uphold the integrity of our democratic system and demonstrate that all members, regardless of their status, must adhere to the Constitution and remain focused on their responsibilities to the nation.
Author is Founder President of All India Mahila Empowerment Party, Hyderabad. She can be mailed at drnowheraoffice@gmail.com
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