New Delhi – Former Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi responded strongly to BJP MP Nishikant Dubey’s recent remarks calling him a “Muslim Commissioner,” emphasizing that individuals should be assessed based on their contributions and capabilities, not their religious affiliations.
Dubey’s comment came soon after his controversial attack on the Supreme Court and Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, whom he accused of triggering “religious wars.” The BJP later distanced itself from his statements.
Speaking to The Indian Express, Quraishi stated, “Our Constitution guarantees freedom of expression. Anyone can say what they want. But yes, I absolutely stand by what I said about the Waqf Act.” He had earlier described the Act as a “blatantly sinister/evil plan of the govt to grab Muslim lands” in a social media post dated April 17.
In a conversation with PTI, Quraishi further said, “I served on a constitutional post and had a fulfilling career in the IAS. I believe in an India where people are recognised for their talents and service, not their religion. Sadly, some continue to exploit religious identities for hateful politics. But India has always stood up for its constitutional values and will continue to do so.”
Quraishi served as the Chief Election Commissioner from July 2010 to June 2012.
