Controversial Comments on Dimple Yadav’s Mosque Visit

A recent gathering of Samajwadi Party (SP) leaders at a mosque, including party president Akhilesh Yadav and his wife, MP Dimple Yadav, has triggered a significant controversy—not for political reasons, but due to criticism over Dimple Yadav’s attire.

Controversial Comments Spark Backlash

Following the event, several religious leaders, including the president of the All India Imam Association, Maulana Sajid Rashidi, issued public advice to Akhilesh and Dimple Yadav regarding appropriate mosque conduct. However, Maulana Rashidi crossed a line during a television debate, making highly objectionable remarks about Dimple Yadav. His comments drew the ire of SP workers and supporters across the state.

Despite multiple attempts to clarify his statements, Maulana Rashidi’s explanations failed to quell the anger. Tensions escalated when a video surfaced online showing Rashidi being slapped by a young man inside a news channel’s studio in Noida. The attacker, identified as Mohit Nagar, president of the SP student wing for Gautam Buddh Nagar, along with other SP leaders Shyam Singh and Prashant Bhati, physically assaulted Rashidi live on camera. The video, recorded by SP members themselves, quickly went viral on social media.

Legal Actions and Political Fallout

After the altercation, Maulana Rashidi filed a police complaint at Sector 126 police station. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party leaders, particularly from the party’s women’s wing, staged strong protests against Rashidi’s remarks. Additionally, a formal case was registered against Rashidi at Lucknow’s Vibhuti police station, accusing him of making indecent comments about Dimple Yadav. Conversely, those involved in the assault have accused Rashidi of inciting religious discord. Police are now investigating all aspects of the case.

Maulana Rashidi’s Defense

In his defense, Maulana Rashidi reiterated objections rooted in Islamic norms concerning Dimple Yadav’s posture inside the mosque. He argued that sitting in such a manner is inappropriate according to religious beliefs and called out other Muslims present for not adhering strictly to tradition. Rashidi also alleged that an SP MP had organized the event purely for political showmanship, further violating the sanctity of the mosque.

Conclusion

The incident has ignited a broader discussion on religious decorum, political conduct inside religious spaces, and the limits of free speech. Both legal and social consequences continue to play out as authorities investigate the matter.