New Delhi: Defending POTA (Prevention of Terrorism Act) as an effective law against terrorism, BJP (Bharatiya Janata party) today (Aug 12, 2004) said the Act was "not against Muslims but mujrims (culprits)" and alleged those favouring its repeal by appeasing one constituency were playing "petty politics".

The main Opposition party expects the Bill to repeal the Act will be referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs where it will place its point of view, BJP's Deputy Leader in Rajya Sabha Sushma Swaraj told reporters in New Delhi.

Questioning the logic behind the move to repeal the Act, Swaraj asked, "Why is the Government ashamed of fighting terrorism? Why is it hesitant to tackle the menace?"

"POTA is not against Muslims but against Mujrims (culprits). A culprit has no religion," she said alleging "those favouring its repeal over this argument and want to appease one constituency are playing petty politics."

She argued POTA is applicable against all terrorists including those of LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam), North East and Left-wing extremism who are not Muslims.

Noting that POTA had seven provisions specifically targeted at terrorism, Swaraj said certain clauses in TADA (Terrorists and Disruptive Activities-prevention-Act) having potential of misuse had been removed in POTA.

Besides, there is a Review Committee to monitor its use or abuse, the BJP leader said, adding the Government, instead of repealing it, could go in for bettering the law.