Union Minister Giriraj Singh has sparked controversy with his recent remarks directed at the Muslim community during a rally in Arwal district, Bihar. He stated that he does not seek the votes of 'namak haraams' (betrayers), implying that some Muslims benefit from government schemes but do not support the BJP at the polls.

While addressing the crowd, Singh recounted a conversation with a Muslim cleric regarding the Ayushman Bharat health card. He asked the cleric if the cards were distributed based on religion, to which the cleric responded negatively. Singh then inquired if the cleric had voted for him, and although the cleric affirmed this, he refused to swear on God that he had done so. Singh remarked, "Muslims take benefits of all Central schemes but don’t vote for us... Such people are called ‘namak haraam’. I told maulvi sahab that I don’t want votes of ‘namak haraams’.”

Singh further questioned the cleric about whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi or he had insulted him, to which the cleric replied no. He expressed frustration that despite the NDA government's development efforts in Bihar, Muslims still do not support the BJP. Singh claimed, "Roads have been built in Bihar not only for NDA leaders and workers but for the masses... The NDA government works for every section of society, but Muslims do not vote for the BJP."

In response to Singh's comments, RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwary criticized BJP leaders for focusing on Hindu-Muslim issues instead of addressing pressing concerns like unemployment and rising prices. He stated, "Whenever you talk to them about development, they start discussions on Hindu-Muslim issues and try their best to divert the attention of people from core issues."

The remarks come as Bihar prepares for assembly elections, with voting scheduled for November 6 and 11, and results to be announced on November 14. Singh's comments add to a history of controversial statements he has made in the past.