Rameshwar Sharma criticises Congress leader over Muslim representation and government Jobs
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — A Madhya Pradesh BJP legislator, Rameshwar Sharma, has ignited a political storm by branding senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh as the “new Jinnah”.
Sharma, the party’s MLA from Huzur constituency in Bhopal, suggested that Lord Gajanan should grant wisdom to Digvijay Singh, whom he accused of embodying the characteristics of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan. “Digvijay Singh is emerging as the new Jinnah in the country,” Sharma said. He was addressing a public meeting in the state capital on Saturday.
Sharma raised eyebrows at the number of Muslim officers, such as Superintendents of Police (SPs) and collectors, appointed by Singh during his tenure as the state chief minister. He also criticised the notion of Muslims studying in madrasas, questioning whether such education led to the appointment of high-ranking officials or merely fostered extremism. “Did they become SPs or collectors after studying in madrasas, or were they made jihadis?” Sharma asked.
Sharma further alleged that Singh’s actions were contributing to the radicalisation of Muslim youth. “Just like you are becoming jihadis, you are also making Muslim youth jihadis. Let them pursue higher education to succeed in competitive examinations and secure jobs,” Sharma argued. He challenged Singh to demonstrate his commitment to Muslims by fielding a Muslim candidate in the constituency of Singh’s son, Jaivardhan Singh.
Addressing broader concerns, Sharma stated, “The person who has the ability will get the job.” He also criticised Singh’s stance on the rights of Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs), asserting, “If you want to snatch the rights of SC, ST and OBC and give it to Muslims, then it is not possible.”
The controversy erupted following a statement by Digvijay Singh, who had earlier highlighted that Muslims are underrepresented in government jobs compared to SCs and STs, despite their significant numbers. Sharma’s response to Singh’s remarks has intensified the political rhetoric, underscoring the deepening divide between BJP and Congress leaders.
The exchange has further heated the political discourse, reflecting the charged atmosphere in the current Indian political spectrum.
