Mon Apr 21 18:38:25 UTC 2025: ## Former Election Commissioner Quraishi Condemns BJP MP’s “Muslim Commissioner” Remark, Receives Wide Political Support
**New Delhi, April 22, 2025** – Former Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi strongly condemned BJP MP Nishikant Dubey’s derogatory “Muslim commissioner” remark, asserting that individuals should be judged by their contributions, not their religious identity. This statement followed Dubey’s earlier criticism of the Supreme Court and Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna.
Quraishi’s remarks sparked widespread support from various political figures. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized Dubey for his comments on a former constitutional authority. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of judging individuals based on merit, not religious or caste identity. CPI General Secretary D. Raja condemned Dubey’s statement, questioning the BJP’s stance on the matter and accusing the party of using provocative language. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut lauded Quraishi’s service, while JD(U) spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan Prasad noted the BJP’s apparent discomfort with Dubey’s remarks.
Dubey’s attack on Quraishi stemmed from the latter’s criticism of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, which Quraishi described as a plan to seize Muslim lands. Dubey’s accusations against Quraishi included allegations of facilitating voter registration for Bangladeshi infiltrators.
Quraishi, in response to the controversy, cited a George Bernard Shaw quote about avoiding arguments with pigs. His statement highlighted his commitment to an India defined by meritocracy and constitutional principles, contrasting it with what he characterized as the hate-fueled politics of some individuals. The incident has ignited a significant political debate on religious tolerance and the role of public figures in India.
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