BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal: Stalin Politicizing Delimitation

Synopsis

BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal criticized Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister MK Stalin for politicizing the delimitation process, emphasizing it's a procedural matter. He also addressed concerns regarding the Waqf Bill and Karnataka's reservations for Muslims, advocating for clarity and national pride through a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Key Takeaways

Delimitation is a procedural issue.
Stalin is politicizing the delimitation process.
Concerns over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill.
Karnataka's reservations for Muslims raise questions.
Statue of Shivaji Maharaj symbolizes national pride.

New Delhi, March 22 (NationPress) BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal stated on Saturday regarding the delimitation matter that it is a well-established procedure that adheres to specific guidelines. Nevertheless, Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister MK Stalin is unnecessarily transforming it into a political issue.

Khandelwal commented to IANS, "Clearly, Stalin is finding it difficult to hold onto his political footing, and in an effort to restore his diminished authority, he is attempting to turn delimitation into a subject of controversy. In truth, delimitation is not a pressing issue currently. The process will only initiate post a population census, followed by the formation of the delimitation commission. Only then will any discussions ensue."

On the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Khandelwal also took aim at AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, who alleged that the Bill was intended to confiscate Muslim religious properties, including graveyards and dargahs.

Khandelwal countered, "The JPC (Joint Parliamentary Committee) that was established on this matter consulted individuals from diverse communities nationwide, gathered their feedback, and subsequently presented its findings in Parliament. The decision is now with the Lok Sabha, and it is for the House to determine. As a fellow member of Parliament, Owaisi should voice these concerns within the House rather than making inflammatory remarks outside of it."

Shifting focus to the latest political changes in Karnataka, Khandelwal expressed apprehension regarding the state government's intention to extend reservations exclusively to Muslims.

"The Congress must clarify whether only Muslims will benefit from this reservation or if other socially and economically disadvantaged communities in Karnataka also deserve it. The state government needs to provide a clear response on this," Khandelwal remarked, in reference to the suspension of 18 BJP MLAs who protested against the Bill.

Khandelwal also discussed the initiative to erect a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Agra, a location where Aurangzeb had once held him captive. "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj embodies national pride. Aurangzeb was an invader. Any monument honoring Shivaji Maharaj will evoke pride and respect among all Indians, and it is a matter of honor for the entire nation."