Hyderabad: The state BJP today sharply criticized the ruling Congress government under A. Revanth Reddy for what it described as unprecedented “appeasement” measures. In a strongly worded statement, the state BJP spokesperson and media-in-charge condemned the recent government order issued by the Labour Department Commissioner.
The government order, released on Thursday, permits business houses to remain open around the clock throughout the Ramzan festivities—from March 2 to March 31—under the Shops and Establishments Act. “This decision clearly demonstrates the extent to which appeasement politics has infiltrated the Revanth Reddy government,” the spokesperson stated.
“Yesterday, an exception was made allowing government employees from the minority Muslim community to leave an hour early to break their fast, and today, we see business houses receiving a 24/7 operational exemption.”
The spokesperson emphasized that while similar exemptions had previously been limited to the Old City of Hyderabad, the decision to extend such measures statewide is deeply concerning. “While our party supports reasonable accommodations in predominantly Muslim areas, extending these exemptions to regions with different demographic compositions is entirely objectionable,” he said.
He further warned that the blanket implementation of this policy could lead to potential law and order challenges, particularly in Hindu-dominated areas where only a few minority Muslims reside. “Such measures may encourage disruptive behaviour by a few miscreants during late-night hours, placing an undue burden on our law enforcement agencies,” the spokesperson added.
The BJP remains committed to safeguarding the interests of all communities and upholding equitable policies that do not favour one group over another for vote bank politics. The party calls on the government to reconsider its decision and adopt measures that promote fairness and harmony across the state.
