Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament Nishikant Dubey has sparked controversy by referring to former Chief Election Commissioner S Y Quraishi as a ‘Muslim commissioner’ in response to the latter’s criticism of the Waqf (Amendment) Act. Dubey has accused Quraishi of allegedly aiding in the voter registration of Bangladeshi infiltrators. This incident comes on the heels of Dubey’s earlier controversial comments about the Supreme Court and Chief Justice of India, prompting the BJP to disassociate itself from his statements questioning the court’s jurisdiction and authority. The remarks made by Dubey have raised concerns and drawn criticism for their divisive and inflammatory nature. The BJP’s decision to distance itself from Dubey’s statements indicates a move to maintain a more neutral and balanced stance on sensitive issues. The use of inflammatory language and accusations based on religious affiliations has the potential to incite tensions and create communal disharmony. It remains to be seen how the BJP will address and manage the fallout from Dubey’s remarks, as the party navigates the delicate balance between upholding freedom of speech and ensuring responsible and respectful discourse in the public sphere.
