What’s Behind the Change in Asaduddin Owaisi?

Politics is full of unexpected turns, and politicians often change in ways that surprise the public. One such transformation that’s drawing attention is that of Hyderabad MP and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi.

The Turning Point

This apparent shift in Owaisi’s tone began after the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where Pakistani terrorists mercilessly gunned down Indian tourists. Following the incident, India launched strong retaliatory strikes under Operation Sindoor, repeatedly targeting terror camps across the border. Since then, Owaisi’s speeches have shown an unprecedented surge in nationalism and anti-Pakistan sentiment.

A New Owaisi?

Traditionally known for his critical stance toward the BJP and the central government, Owaisi is now more vocal than many BJP leaders in condemning Pakistan. He has publicly shouted “Pakistan Murdabad” (death to Pakistan) from public stages — something that was unheard of from him in the past. In fact, his tone has become so harsh that he has called Pakistan a "beggar state" and slammed international organizations like the IMF for giving loans to what he describes as a "terrorist state."

Recently, Owaisi visited Pahalgam, the very site of the terrorist attack, and unleashed fierce criticism against Pakistan, saying that the country has no right to even utter the word "Islam." According to him, Islam stands for peace and harmony, and Pakistan’s actions are a disgrace to the religion itself.

A Shift from the Past

Observers are quick to point out that Owaisi never expressed such strong anti-Pakistan views in the past, even during earlier terror attacks, including those in Hyderabad. His brother Akbaruddin Owaisi once made inflammatory statements against India, yet Asaduddin remained silent. Even when attacks were clearly linked to Pakistan, Owaisi’s responses were muted or symbolic at best.

Praise for the Government?

Interestingly, despite being a staunch critic of PM Modi, Owaisi has praised the government's military response to Pakistan, signaling a rare alignment on national security. This has led many to believe that he’s either genuinely transformed, or is strategically repositioning himself to avoid being labeled anti-national, especially given the sensitivity of being a Muslim leader during heightened Indo-Pak tensions.

Some say he fears backlash from BJP leaders or unrest in Hyderabad’s Old City if he appears soft on Pakistan. Others argue that this is simply a new, more patriotic Owaisi — perhaps finally voicing what he truly believes.