Cong refutes BSP claim that N-deal is against Muslims

The Congress dismisses BSP supremo Mayawati's contention that the Indo-US nuclear deal was against the Muslim community and accused her of communalising the issue.

The Congress on Tuesday dismissed BSP supremo Mayawati's contention that the Indo-US nuclear deal was against the Muslim community and accused her of communalising the issue.

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"The deal has nothing to do with any community. It is unfortunate that some parties were trying to communalise the issue for political benefits," party spokesman Shakeel Ahmed said.

He said that sometime back when CPI(M) leader MK Pandhe had made a similar statement, it was condemned by all Muslim religious leaders.

"Muslims also need electricity. Nobody should try to communalise the issue. The deal is in national interest," he said.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati alleged at Lucknow that the deal, which was being widely opposed in the country, has angered the Muslims.

AICC Secretary Manish Tiwari underlined the importance of the deal, saying "Whichever party has the long term interests of India in mind, is supporting the deal."

Tiwari said the Congress was banking on the political parties of the country to take a decision which helps the country in the long run.