During a recent rally, AIMIM leader Akbaruddin Owaisi made headlines by stating, “Give Indian Muslims just 15 minutes of power, and Pakistan will…”-a provocative remark that quickly went viral and drew widespread criticism. The full context of Owaisi’s statement dates back to his earlier speeches, where he challenged the status quo by saying that if police were removed for 15 minutes, Indian Muslims would show their strength. This time, the statement was reiterated by other AIMIM leaders, fueling further controversy.
AIMIM leaders later clarified that the statement was not a call for violence or communal discord. Akhtarul Iman, another AIMIM leader, defended Owaisi, stating that the remark meant that, if police were removed, communities could resolve disputes peacefully and that police presence often escalates tensions. Owaisi himself has previously claimed that his words were misinterpreted for political gain and that he never intended to incite violence or hatred.
The remark drew immediate and strong reactions from BJP leaders and others:
BJP’s Navneet Rana responded that if police were removed, it would take “15 seconds” for their side to respond, escalating the rhetoric further.
BJP and other critics accused AIMIM of promoting a “divide and rule” policy and stoking communal tensions, referencing the party’s historical legacy and previous controversial statements.
The statement was widely condemned on social media and by political commentators, who warned against inflammatory language that could harm communal harmony.
The “15 minutes” remark has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over communal politics in India. While AIMIM leaders insist their words are about empowerment and justice, opponents argue such rhetoric only deepens divides. The controversy also comes amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions, with leaders like Asaduddin Owaisi criticizing Pakistan as a “failed nation” and urging Indian Muslims to remain united and reject divisive narratives.