‘For Some People, Religious Identities Staple To Forward Hateful Politics’

On April 21, former Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi responded strongly to BJP MP Nishikant Dubey’s derogatory remarks, which labeled him a “Muslim commissioner.” Quraishi emphasized his belief in an inclusive India, where individuals are recognized for their contributions rather than their religious identities. He stated, “I believe in an idea of India where an individual is defined by his or her talents and contributions and not by religious identities.”

Quraishi’s comments came in the wake of Dubey’s controversial statements, which were made after Quraishi criticized the Waqf (Amendment) Act, describing it as a “sinister and evil plan of the government to grab Muslim lands.” In response to Dubey’s attack, Quraishi asserted, “For some, religious identities are a staple to forward their hateful politics.” He reaffirmed his commitment to India’s constitutional values, declaring, “India has, is and will always stand up and fight for its constitutional institutions and principles.”

K. Mahesh, an IAS officer and honorary president of the Delhi Administration Officers Academic Forum, came to Quraishi’s defense, praising his tenure as both Election Commissioner and Chief Election Commissioner. Mahesh remarked, “He held these great assignments with aplomb and distinction and greatly enriched the institution of the Election Commission by introducing a series of reforms.” He highlighted Quraishi’s initiatives, such as establishing a voters’ education division and an expenditure control division, as well as founding the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management.

Mahesh further noted that Quraishi’s contributions to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) have been widely recognized, including commendations from notable figures like Dr. Gopalkrishna Gandhi. Mahesh recalled Gandhi’s words, stating, “He was ‘one of the most remarkable CECs that we have ever had or are likely to have.'” This acknowledgment underscores the respect Quraishi commands within the administrative community.

Dubey’s remarks, which included a personal attack on Quraishi’s identity, were made shortly after he faced backlash for his criticism of the Supreme Court and Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna. Dubey had previously blamed the Chief Justice for “religious wars” in India, prompting the BJP to distance itself from his comments. In his tirade against Quraishi, Dubey claimed, “You were not an election commissioner, you were a Muslim commissioner,” and accused Quraishi of facilitating the voter registration of “the maximum number of Bangladeshi infiltrators” during his tenure.

In a historical context, Dubey referenced the arrival of Islam in India, stating, “Prophet Muhammad’s Islam came to India in 712. This land (waqf) before that belonged to Hindus or tribals, Jains or Buddhists associated with that faith.” He further invoked the history of his village, Vikramshila, which he claimed was destroyed by Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1189, asserting that Vikramshila University was significant for producing the world’s “first vice-chancellor” in Atish Dipankar.

Dubey’s comments reflect a broader narrative that seeks to intertwine historical grievances with contemporary political discourse. He urged unity among Indians, stating, “Unite this country, read history. Pakistan was created by dividing it. There will be no Partition now.” His remarks, however, have been met with criticism for their divisive nature and for attempting to politicize religious identity.

The exchange between Quraishi and Dubey highlights the ongoing tensions in Indian politics regarding religious identity and its implications for governance. Quraishi’s defense of an inclusive India stands in stark contrast to Dubey’s rhetoric, which seeks to leverage religious identity for political gain. As Quraishi aptly put it, “India has, is and will always stand up and fight for its constitutional institutions and principles,” a sentiment that resonates with many who advocate for a secular and pluralistic society.