Muslim leaders reject ex-IAS officer’s call to hide identity to avoid mob attacks
Bhopal : Muslim scholars, political leaders and activists have strongly criticised former Indian officer Niaz Khan for suggesting that Indian Muslims should change their traditional attire to avoid mob violence.
According to Kashmir Media Service, in a post on X, Khan said many lynching victims were identifiable by kurta, pyjama, beard and cap, and suggested Muslims adopt dress styles like those in Turkey so their religious identity is not immediately visible.
Muslim scholar Tauqeer Nizami rejected the advice, saying, “Muslims have never hidden their identity and they will not hide it in the future.” He said the responsibility lies with authorities to stop attackers, not with victims to change how they dress.
Congress MLA Arif Masood said India’s Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to choose their attire and live without fear of discrimination. Delhi-based social worker Iqbal Ahmed accused Khan of “placing responsibility on those who suffer” instead of demanding justice.
“No citizen should ever be told that they must hide who they are in order to remain safe,” he said. The remarks drew support from some BJP leaders. Bhopal BJP MP Alok Sharma said he “welcomes what Niaz Khan has said.
“The comments have sparked widespread debate on social media about religious freedom, mob violence and the right to maintain cultural identity. Critics argue the focus should be on stopping hate crimes and ensuring accountability, not asking communities to conceal their identity.
