A major controversy erupted in the Rajasthan Assembly recently when BJP MLA Gopal Sharma referred to Congress MLA Rafiq Khan as "Pakistani." This statement led to an uproar in the House, with Congress MLAs bly reacting.
Jaipur: A dispute arose in the Rajasthan Assembly after BJP MLA Gopal Sharma called Congress MLA Rafiq Khan "Pakistani." This remark deeply affected Rafiq Khan, who deemed it offensive and questioned whether being a Muslim MLA was a crime. The incident caused a commotion in the House, with Congress staging a b protest.
The Assembly Speaker also objected to the remark, while Gopal Sharma, in his defense, claimed he did not address Rafiq Khan personally with that term. The statement drew sharp criticism from academics and other political leaders, further escalating the matter.
"I am glad my father is not alive," Rafiq Khan said emotionally. "My father passed away two years ago; I am relieved he is not alive today. If he were, and he had to hear such derogatory words, he wouldn't be able to bear it." He also mentioned that he hadn't slept in two nights due to distress and profound sadness caused by the incident.
Rafiq Khan further stated, "If being a Muslim is a crime, if being a Muslim MLA is a crime, then the BJP should pass a law stating that no Muslim will become an MLA in the future."
What is the full story?
The controversy began during a discussion on the grant demands of the Urban Development Department. Rafiq Khan started comparing the governance of Congress and BJP governments when BJP MLA Gopal Sharma began calling him "Pakistani." This remark prompted b objections from Congress MLAs, resulting in an uproar in the House.
Leader of Opposition's objection and BJP MLA's clarification
Leader of the Opposition, Tikaram Juli, objected to the remark and demanded action from the Assembly Speaker. The Speaker cautioned BJP MLA Gopal Sharma, who then clarified, "I did not call Rafiq Khan Pakistani, but if he feels that way, it means there's a speck in the thief's beard."
Academics' reaction
The incident evoked reactions from academics and political analysts. Academic Sunil Sharma bly criticized the remark, questioning what would be said about Captain Hamid, Brigadier Usman, and Makbool Sherwani, who sacrificed for the country, if Rafiq Khan is considered "Pakistani." This event has caused a stir in Rajasthan's political landscape.
Congress has condemned the statement as an insult to Muslims, while the BJP is on the defensive. It remains to be seen what action the Assembly Speaker will take and whether the BJP will officially apologize for its MLA's statement.
