Controversy erupts as Ruta Awhad compares Kalam to Bin Laden

Ruta Awhad, the wife of NCP MLA Jitendra Awhad, sparked controversy after a video surfaced in which she compared former Indian president APJ Abdul Kalam to Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden. This statement, made during a public event in Mumbra, suggested that both figures were shaped by societal influences, with Awhad arguing that Osama became a terrorist out of frustration rather than being born one. Following the backlash, particularly from the BJP, Awhad sought to clarify her remarks, claiming that her statements were edited and taken out of context. She emphasized that her intention was to encourage young people to read books instead of being glued to their mobile phones. The BJP reacted strongly, accusing the INDIA alliance of harboring sympathies for terrorists. Party spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla criticized Awhad's comments, asserting that they reflect a broader trend of the opposition's alleged leniency towards terrorism. He cited various historical figures associated with terrorism to bolster his argument, suggesting that such views are detrimental to society. In the wake of the incident, Awhad's comments have ignited a heated debate on social media, with many users expressing disapproval. The BJP's response indicates a strategic move to position themselves against the opposition by highlighting perceived connections to terrorism. This incident underscores the sensitive nature of political discourse in India, particularly regarding figures like Abdul Kalam, who is widely respected, and the implications of comparing him to a notorious terrorist like Osama Bin Laden.