Owaisi's Jab at PM Modi's Uzbek Honour Sparks Political Row
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he was conferred with Uzbekistan's highest state honour, referencing the country as the birthplace of Mughal emperor Babur. The remark has triggered a fresh political debate over historical symbolism and diplomatic gestures.
Speaking to reporters, Owaisi said, "The Prime Minister has received an honour from the country Babur came from. Perhaps he will now rewrite history to suit his narrative." His comment appeared to link the award to the Mughal lineage, a recurring theme in political discourse, and was interpreted as a critique of the government's handling of historical issues.
The Prime Minister was awarded the 'Order of Amir Temur' during his visit to Uzbekistan, a recognition for strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. The award, named after the 14th-century Central Asian conqueror, is one of Uzbekistan's highest civilian honours and is typically given to foreign dignitaries for exceptional contributions to cooperation.
Owaisi's reference to Babur, who invaded the Indian subcontinent in the 16th century and established the Mughal Empire, is seen by many as an attempt to highlight the complex historical relationship between Central Asia and South Asia. However, critics of the remark accused Owaisi of reducing a diplomatic milestone to a partisan jab.
Political reactions were divided. While some opposition leaders echoed Owaisi's sentiments, questioning the government's glorification of certain historical figures, others defended the honour as a matter of national pride. BJP leaders dismissed Owaisi's statement as "irresponsible" and "lacking respect for the office of the Prime Minister."
Political analysts noted that such remarks often draw attention away from substantive diplomatic achievements. "The honour itself is a recognition of India's growing strategic partnership with Uzbekistan, which has significant implications for regional connectivity and security," said a foreign policy expert, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
This is not the first time Owaisi has clashed with the ruling dispensation over historical and religious narratives. His comments have previously sparked controversies, ranging from court rulings on the Babri Masjid to the Citizenship Amendment Act.
The Prime Minister, who is on a two-nation visit, has not responded to Owaisi's remarks. However, official sources emphasised that the award reflects the mutual respect between India and Uzbekistan, and should not be viewed through a narrow historical lens.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs described the award as a testament to the "centuries-old civilisational links" between the two countries, adding that such recognition helps in consolidating friendly ties and opens new avenues for cooperation.
Observers point out that Babur, though often remembered as an invader, is also celebrated in Uzbekistan as a poet and founder of the Timurid Renaissance. His legacy remains contested in South Asia, where perceptions vary widely across communities.
As the political sparring continues, many hope the focus will shift back to the substantive outcomes of the visit, which included agreements on trade, energy, and defence cooperation. Diplomatic milestones, they argue, should be evaluated on their merits rather than dragged into domestic political rivalries.
