'Land of Babur Honours Modi': Critics Slam Indian PM Over Uzbekistan State Award

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has faced sharp criticism from opposition party members and online critics after accepting Uzbekistan’s highest civilian state award during his official visit to the Central Asian nation. The controversy flared up after Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev conferred the award on Indian PM Modi in Tashkent, recognizing his efforts to deepen strategic ties between the two nations.

The criticism stems from the anti-Mughal rhetoric of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which critics accuse of relying on right-wing communal politics. Commenting on the issue, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi accused the BJP of "double standards" over its historical stance and demonization of the Mughal dynasty.

"I congratulate the BJP; the very country from which Babur came to India has conferred an award upon the Prime Minister," Owaisi told reporters.

"You used to hurl so many insults in Babur's name, yet the people of that very country are now honouring you with an award. The Sangh needs to reflect on this," he added, taking a direct jab at right-wing supporters of the BJP.

Critics argue that while BJP leaders frequently use Babur’s name as a political pejorative in domestic campaigns, the party readily celebrates state honours originating from Mughal Emperor Babur's native region.