The AIMIM chief's response comes after widespread criticism over his statement offering support for 5 terror suspects arrested by NIA

Outspoken All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen chief Asaduddin Owaisi was recently embroiled in a controversy over his statement claiming to offer legal support to five Hyderabad-based terror suspects who were arrested by the NIA on charges of being involved in an alleged ISIS terror module.

He has defended his decision, saying it’s the fundamental right of every citizen to be represented in a court of law. Many have even criticised him for offering support and called him a traitor. But with his recent comments on ISIS, Owaisi seems to have clearly distanced himself from the terror organisation.

Speaking at a rally, Owaisi said that ISIS has done the Muslim community the most damage. “You (terrorists) caused so much pain to Muslim community that we cant even express it in words,” he said referring to ISIS fighters. He also labelled suicide bombers as “dogs of hell fire”.

He also rebuked the role played by ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in demonising the Islamic world. “For the pain you have caused to the Muslim community, your body will be cut into pieces,” said Owaisi about the ISIS leader.

He also mentioned attacks in Saudi Arabia and criticised the interpretation of ‘jihad’ by the perpetrators of the attack. “If you want to do actual jihad then come teach the children of poor Muslim settlements,” he said.

He also urged Muslim youth to live for Islam and not die for it.