Concerns Arise Over Mosque Surveys: Insights from Robert Vadra (IANS Interview)

Mumbai, Dec 7 (NationPress) Robert Vadra, spouse of Wayanad Lok Sabha MP Priyanka Gandhi and son-in-law of Sonia Gandhi, articulated his concerns on Saturday about the ongoing surveys at various mosques. He highlighted the necessity of maintaining a secular government and unity for achieving progress.

After performing prayers at Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai, the 55-year-old businessman remarked that as a multi-faceted nation, it is essential to allow everyone to practice their faith freely.

He expressed hope that his wife, together with Rahul Gandhi, would confront the BJP and reveal the issues that the ruling party attempts to conceal. Vadra also addressed the concerns voters have regarding EVMs, urging the Election Commission to find a prompt resolution before public trust in the voting process diminishes.

Here are some excerpts from the interview.

IANS: How do you feel about your wife being an MP now?

RV: I am delighted that Priyanka is now part of Parliament. I believe she will address the issues that the BJP has kept hidden, including those related to farmers, women, and minorities—issues that are pressing and overlooked. Alongside Rahul, Priyanka will tackle these concerns.

IANS: What is your perspective on the push for mosque surveys across the country?

RV: This is troubling. I am genuinely concerned about the surveys being done in mosques. We are a diverse nation, and we must permit all individuals to practice their faith. In times of distress, people turn to their deities; politicians are often absent then. We require a secular government.

I trust Priyanka, along with Rahul Gandhi, will aim to address issues in Sambhal (a region in Uttar Pradesh that has seen unrest linked to mosque surveys) and everywhere else where government-induced turmoil exists.

IANS: What do you consider to be the repercussions of frequent communal tensions?

RV: We are a resilient, secular nation, and we must remain united. This unity is essential for our collective advancement. We should uphold secularism and harmony to progress as a nation.

IANS: What are your thoughts on the farmers’ protests and their journey to Delhi?

RV: When the government neglects the concerns of those in distress and refuses to listen... Farmers have protested for two years, with many losing their lives while no one paid attention to them. I suspect that before the 2024 general elections, the reversal of all three farm bills was merely a superficial gesture.

IANS: How do you interpret the recent assembly election outcomes in Haryana and Maharashtra?

RV: There seems to be a clear problem with the EVMs. If all the protesting farmers are from Haryana, how is it possible that Haryana elected a government that aligns with the BJP? The farmers' discontent is evident, indicating a significant issue with the voting machines. Such results in Haryana are perplexing.

In Maharashtra, we had high expectations. However, I believe the Congress will rise again, and people will exert themselves. I congratulate Mahayuti, yet it must operate in a manner that is equitable for all.

The election results did not meet expectations. Feedback from various individuals suggests a lack of faith in the EVMs. Some machines reportedly have a battery life of 99 percent, while others show only 66 percent. These matters have been reported to the Election Commission, and I hope they will address these concerns. It is crucial for public trust in the voting system to be restored; otherwise, people will lose confidence in the democratic process.

IANS: Is the situation in Manipur being handled adequately?

RV: The Prime Minister must address the genuine issues facing the country. He may attend events in the North-East, but he neglects Manipur, where a government exists amidst significant unrest. Women are facing harassment, and everyone is suffering. If a solution is not forthcoming, all political entities must collaborate beyond party lines to resolve the Manipur crisis.

Numerous pressing issues require attention, but if the Opposition is not heard, the Lok Sabha will remain dysfunctional. This dysfunction is detrimental to our nation.

IANS: What is your sentiment about being in Mumbai?

RV: I feel blessed to be here and am grateful for the warmth and kindness I have received from everyone. I offered a ‘chadar’ and prayed for my family and me. My visit focuses on prayers for brotherhood, peace, and harmony. This is a spiritual journey for me, where I aim to learn and connect with everyone. I strive to assist all the orphanages I can reach.