BJP 'Misusing' Agencies To 'Harass Minorities': Asif Khan On AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan's Arrest

On September 16, Amanatullah Khan was apprehended by the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) in connection with a corruption investigation.

AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan.

Source : PTI

Former Delhi Congress MLA Asif Khan came out in favour of AAP member Amanatullah Khan on Monday, alleging the BJP administration at the Centre is "misusing" its agencies to "harass" minorities, news agency PTI reported.

On September 16, Amanatullah Khan was apprehended by the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) in connection with a corruption investigation.

The ACB is investigating potential anomalies in the recruiting process at the Delhi Waqf Board, which Amanatullah Khan chairs, and has conducted searches at four locations, including his Okhla house.

Asif Khan stated that the ACB searches on the AAP leader's home and other locations had caused fear among the locals.

He did, however, clarify that he was not clearing the AAP MLA.

"Why is the ACB harassing Khan's family and creating panic in Jamia Nagar area? I am totally against the misuse of agencies, particularly against minorities, by the BJP government at the Centre," Asif Khan was quoted by PTI in its report.

The ACB alleged that during its raids at the AAP MLA's house, impediments were made. Four persons were detained for allegedly impeding officers from performing their duties.

According to some Delhi Congress officials, Asif Khan's choice to endorse the AAP MLA is his "personal affair," but he should not have done so.

Meanwhile, Asif Khan has stated that he will stay a "staunch" Congressman.

"I am not supporting the AAP, my support is for Khan and his family. There is great resentment among the locals and as a politician I have sympathised with them. This will ultimately benefit the Congress," he said.

Asif Khan is a two-term MLA representing the Okhla seat. He was defeated in the 2015 Assembly elections by Amanatullah Khan.

According to the ACB, Amanatullah Khan unlawfully hired 32 persons while serving as chairman of the Delhi Waqf Board, in violation of all rules and government procedures, and amid suspicions of corruption and favouritism.

(With Inputs From PTI)