Dr Aijaz Ilmi, a media panelist with the BJP since January 2014, announced his exit from the party on Monday, 10 December at 2 PM, through his Twitter handle. Aijaz is the brother of journalist-turned-politician Shazia Ilmi, who was a spokesperson for Anna Hazare’s ‘India Against Corruption’ campaign, and a member of AAP till May 2014. Shazia joined the BJP in January 2015.
In an exclusive interview to The Quint, Dr Aijaz Ilmi had this to say:
Why did you quit?
The discourse is too divisive. I feel it’s better to exit rather than drag Ali-Bajrang-Bali into elections. For many months, I’ve either refused or recused myself from media debates, since most of them are about the Hindu-Muslim divide as the sole narrative. We need to talk about the polity as equal Indian citizens.
Are you being opportunistic?
When I joined the BJP in February 2014, they were the Opposition. Now it’s the largest party, and rules most states besides a full majority government at the Centre, so it can’t be termed as such.
Why before the results due in five states?
Resigning during polls would not be appropriate. The politics of development and cooperation is never really debated today. It’s all about vilification and demonization of groups based on religion, region and caste.
What are your plans? Will you join the Opposition?
Back to writing, political analysis in the media. Also I am working on a healthcare initiative with my doctor friends.
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