A heated debate unfolded in the Gujarat Assembly during the budget session when Congress MLA Imran Khedawala strongly opposed a statement made by Minister Jagdish Vikrama.
The controversy began when Vikrama claimed that “most encroachments around religious places have been carried out by a particular community.” Khedawala, the only Muslim MLA in Gujarat, reacted sharply, accusing BJP leaders of targeting him due to his religious identity. “I am the only Muslim MLA in Gujarat, and that is why I am being singled out,” he asserted, calling on the Muslim community to remain vigilant and choose leaders who can advocate for their concerns both inside and outside the assembly.
Representing the Jamalpur-Khadia constituency, Khedawala emphasized that his victory was not driven by communal politics.
He pointed out that his constituency consists of 60% Muslims and 40% Hindus, and he represents all constituents equally, regardless of their faith. He also stressed that his election was not based on religious lines but rather on his ability to serve everyone in his constituency.
Khedawala strongly rejected accusations of engaging in religious politics and reaffirmed his dedication to India’s secular values. “This is our country, and we will live and die in this soil,” he declared, reinforcing his commitment to the nation’s unity and secularism despite attempts to paint him as a communal figure. — With Agencies Inputs
This story was originally published in muslimmirror.com.