Hyderabad- A decision by the Telangana government to allow Muslim employees to leave work early during Ramzan has drawn criticism from BJP and Shiv Sena leaders, who have characterized it as religious appeasement. The state's Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari issued an order permitting Muslim government employees, teachers, and contract workers to leave offices at 4 p.m. during the holy month, spanning from March 2-31, 2025.

BJP MLA T. Raja Singh from Goshamahal constituency voiced his opposition on social media, questioning the lack of similar provisions for Hindu festivals.

Shiv Sena leader Shaina Chudasama Munot and VHP National Spokesperson Vinod Bansal also criticized the decision, with Bansal specifically questioning whether similar accommodations had been made for Hindu observances like Karva Chauth, Durga Puja, or Navratri.

Congress leaders have defended the policy, which continues a practice that existed during both united Andhra Pradesh and the previous BRS government in Telangana.

Congress leader Rashid Alvi suggested that BJP-led state governments should adopt similar inclusive policies, while Madhya Pradesh Congress MLA Arif Masood praised the decision as aligned with constitutional values. The debate highlights ongoing tensions over religious accommodation in government policy.