Former AMU V-C Tariq Mansoor has been appointed as the national vice-president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), boosting the party’s outreach efforts towards the Pasmanda Muslim community. His selection is seen as a significant move to expand the BJP’s appeal among Muslims, with Mansoor being one of the two saffron Muslim leaders included in the 38-member national team.
The other Muslim leader included in the party’s executive is Abdullah Kutti from Kerala. This decision by the BJP comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on party workers to focus on incorporating Pasmanda Muslims into the party fold. By appointing Mansoor, a respected figure within the Muslim community, the BJP aims to strengthen its engagement with this demographic.
Tariq Mansoor hails from Aligarh and is a former professor at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College. Having taken over as the vice-chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) in 2017, Mansoor’s leadership played a crucial role during his tenure. Interestingly, his father was also a law professor, highlighting the family’s dedication to education.
Mansoor belongs to the Pasmanda community, specifically from the Qureshi caste. Known for his closeness to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological parent organization of the BJP, Mansoor’s appointment further solidifies the party’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
Notably, Mansoor’s term as Vice-Chancellor was set to end in 2022, but he resigned after being nominated to the state council by the BJP. While some may question this decision, it aligns with the BJP’s strategy to establish itself as a party representing all sections of society.
The inclusion of Tariq Mansoor as a national vice-president reflects the BJP’s efforts to bridge the gap between religious communities and create a more inclusive political landscape. As the party expands its influence across the country, reaching out to marginalized groups becomes increasingly crucial.
The appointment of Mansoor and Abdullah Kutti sends a clear message that the BJP is committed to embracing Muslim leaders and incorporating their perspectives into the party’s decision-making process. This move not only gives a voice to the Pasmanda Muslims but also challenges stereotypes and breaks barriers in Indian politics.
Overall, Tariq Mansoor’s induction as the BJP’s national vice-president enhances the party’s outreach efforts and signifies a significant step towards fostering unity and inclusivity among Muslims in India. His experience, background, and commitment to education make him a valuable asset to the BJP’s national team, further enhancing its appeal to diverse communities across the country.
