Muslims for proportional share in legislature

Demanding adequate share for the community, Asaduddin Owaisi (AIMIM) said only 471 Muslim MPs were elected to Parliament in its 60 years history which was almost half of what exactly should be the community's representation in the only lawmaking body of the country.

He said the country should move from the participatory democratic system to proportional representation system so that the minorities can ensure their adequate representation in Parliament.

Observing that the word Parliament has come a French word Parler, which means "to talk" or "to discuss", he rued the continuous disruption of the proceedings and blamed the members for it.

He said MPs disrupt the proceedings and go to TV studios to speak. Steps should be taken to restore decorum of the House.

IUML MP and Minister E Ahamed said there are socio-religious groups who have not got enough space in the developmental arena.

"Minorities should get due share in the development of the country," he said.

Noting that Islamic Culture in India is part and parcel of composite culture of the country, he said it is "as strong as Red Fort, as tall as Qutab Minar and as beautiful as Taj Mahal".

He expressed confidence that the members of the majority community will protect this rich culture.

Sharief-ud-din Shariq (National Conference) recalled the contribution of great leaders from the community including Maulana Abul Kalam Azad and Sheikh Abdullah in building the nation.