Nishikant Dubey criticizes former Chief Election Commissioner Quraishi, referring to him as a 'Muslim commissioner'
Nishikant Dubey Sparks Controversy with Remark on Former CEC Quraishi
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey has stirred a fresh political storm after making a controversial remark about former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) S.Y. Quraishi, referring to him as a “Muslim commissioner.” The comment, made during a televised discussion and echoed across social media, has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters for allegedly communalizing a constitutional post.
Dubey, known for his combative political style, was reacting to Quraishi’s recent comments on the functioning and impartiality of the Election Commission. Quraishi, who served as India’s 17th Chief Election Commissioner from 2010 to 2012, had raised concerns about the integrity and neutrality of electoral processes in recent times. In response, Dubey dismissed Quraishi’s statements, attributing them to what he described as a “biased mindset,” and controversially labeled him as a “Muslim commissioner.”
The remark has sparked outrage among opposition leaders, civil society activists, and former bureaucrats who see it as an attack not just on an individual, but on the secular foundations of India’s democratic institutions. Many pointed out that Quraishi had served the Election Commission with distinction and professionalism, and that his religion had never influenced his official decisions.
“Dragging a former CEC’s faith into political discourse is deeply irresponsible and undermines the dignity of constitutional offices,” said one retired election official, calling for a more respectful tone in political debates.
Dubey, however, remained defiant, defending his statement as a response to what he termed as “selective outrage” from Quraishi and other critics of the government.
The BJP leadership has so far remained silent on the controversy, neither endorsing nor disowning Dubey’s statement. Meanwhile, Quraishi himself has not directly responded to the remark, although sources close to him suggest that he is “disappointed” with the lowering of discourse around such crucial national institutions.
As the political heat rises with ongoing debates about institutional independence and communal harmony, this latest controversy underscores the fragile line between political criticism and personal attack — a line many believe should not be crossed, especially when discussing those who have served in non-partisan, constitutional roles.
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