New Delhi, Oct 27 (NationPress) Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated on Monday that recent allegations made by a former CBI Joint Director against the Congress and RJD have shed light on how these parties have historically sought to "exert pressure" on government officials when their leaders found themselves embroiled in scandals.

Former CBI Joint Director Upendra Nath Biswas, in an IANS interview on Sunday, claimed that the Congress and RJD pressured the central government, previously headed by former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, to protect RJD chief Lalu Yadav from arrest in the fodder scam case.

In the IANS interview, Rijiju criticized both the Congress and RJD for their involvement in 'dynastic politics' and asserted that these opposition parties show a blatant disregard for the Constitution.

He also addressed the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections and commented on RJD leader and Mahagathbandhan's Chief Ministerial candidate Tejashwi Yadav and his recent statements regarding the Waqf Amendment Act, accusing the opposition alliance of engaging in appeasement politics.

Here are some key excerpts from the interview:

IANS: Former CBI Joint Director Upendra Nath Biswas claimed that the Congress and RJD pressured him to shield RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav during the fodder scam case. What are your thoughts on this?

Kiren Rijiju: During the Congress era, a system was nonexistent; they operated under the belief that only one family mattered. The mindset of the Congress party and its affiliates is clearly evident — one family is everything to them. They manipulated everything, including the CBI and the judiciary, to suit their needs.

They display a lack of respect for the Constitution and the law. The officer's remarks reveal the extent to which the Congress exerted influence, toppling state governments and harassing state officials without justification. This has been a longstanding practice of the Congress.

IANS: Tejashwi Yadav suggested that if he were to win, he would "dispose of the Waqf Act." What is your reaction?

Kiren Rijiju: It's astonishing that Tejashwi Yadav, who aspires to be Chief Minister, is unaware of the fundamental fact that a state government cannot repeal any law enacted by Parliament. His ignorance of the Constitution is alarming. How can he make such claims?

The citizens of Bihar and the entire nation are observing, bemused that a self-proclaimed Chief Minister candidate doesn't grasp that he cannot simply discard a Parliamentary Act.

What kind of rhetoric is this? I believe Tejashwi lacks maturity and understanding. Moreover, he appears so desperate for power that he will say anything. Is he willing to suggest he will nullify the Waqf Act merely to attract Muslim votes? How can he make such statements?

IANS: Given that you serve as the Union Minister of Minority Affairs, can any state government disregard the enforcement of a bill passed by Parliament?

Kiren Rijiju: Any law enacted by Parliament is applicable nationwide across India. No one possesses the authority to negate the powers granted by the Constitution. Can Tejashwi Yadav and Rahul Gandhi clarify whether they disregard laws passed by Parliament or the directives of the Supreme Court? Are they dismissing both Parliament and the Supreme Court, as well as the tenets of Indian democracy?

The offspring of a select few families perceive themselves as above the law, the Constitution, and Parliament. But the nation and its citizens are observant.

IANS: Do you believe the opposition is resorting to appeasement politics leading up to the Bihar Assembly elections?

Kiren Rijiju: For many years, the Congress and RJD have governed through Muslim appeasement, misleading and deceiving the Muslim community. However, they are gradually realizing this fact. Yet, a significant portion of the Muslim population remains under the influence of certain individuals attempting to create a vote bank through intimidation, using the BJP as a scapegoat.

In time, Muslims will come to understand that progress in the country is only achievable under the leadership of PM Modi. Under his guidance, not just Muslims but all communities, regardless of majority or minority status, will be secure in India. This awareness is growing.

IANS: With Chhath Puja currently being celebrated, what is your message to the nation?

Kiren Rijiju: Chhath Puja is truly significant. This occasion, which involves honoring the rising and setting sun, serves as a means to unite our diverse communities and individuals from every background for the welfare of the world. I extend my heartfelt wishes to everyone for a joyous Chhath Puja.