A heated exchange took place in the Gujarat Assembly during the budget session after Congress MLA Imran Khedawala strongly objected to a statement made by Minister Jagdish Vikrama.
The controversy arose when Vikrama alleged that “most encroachments around religious places have been carried out by a particular community.” Khedawala, the only Muslim MLA in Gujarat, reacted sharply, accusing BJP leaders of targeting him due to his religious identity. “I am the only Muslim MLA in Gujarat, and that is why I am being singled out,” he asserted, urging the Muslim community to stay vigilant and elect leaders who will advocate for their concerns.
Representing Jamalpur-Khadia, Khedawala emphasized that his victory was not based on religious polarization. He highlighted that his constituency consists of 60% Muslims and 40% Hindus, and he serves all his constituents equally, irrespective of faith. He firmly rejected accusations of communal politics and reaffirmed his commitment to India’s secular ethos.
“This is our country, and we will live and die in this soil,” he declared, reinforcing his dedication to national unity despite efforts to portray him as a divisive figure.
