30% quota for Muslims in Armed forces: Here's what Nitish Kumar said about JD(U) leader's demand

JD (U) has distanced itself from the controversial comments made by its keader Balywai

At a time when the nation was paying tributes to the martyrs of the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, Janata Dal (United) leader Gulam Rasool Balywai triggered a controversy by claiming that at least 30 per cent reservation needs to be given for Muslims in the armed forces.

"The BJP hides behind the Army to cover up its mistakes. The BJP has compromised with the blood of the soldiers for votes. They have taken advantage of the sacrifices, bravery & martyrdom of our forces. We have faith in the Army. The BJP takes shelter under the name of the Army like absconders. We demand the reservation of 30 per cent for the Muslims in the armed forces," Balyawi said while speaking at Markazi Irada-e-Sharia's event.

He then claimed that Muslims like former President of India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam gave a befitting reply to the nuclear capabilities of Pakistan.

"When Pakistan was threatening India with its nuclear missiles, no saint from Nagpur went to give them a reply. It was a son of a Muslim - Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, who gave a reply to the neighbouring nation," India Today quoted him as saying.

However, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has cautiously avoided fueling fire to the controversy. He said, "Lot of people have the habit of speaking a lot. When I meet him, I will ask him what he has said and why,"

Even the JD(U) has distanced itself from those comments. "Our party does not agree. The party always respects the army," said JD(U) spokesman Abhishek Jha.

The BJP slammed the controversial comments made by the JD (U) and said, "If Ghulam Rasool Baliyavi is so concerned about Muslims, then he should run a religious reform movement to give proper respect, justice and participation to 80 per cent of the Pasmanda Muslims in proportion to their numbers."