Imran Masood Criticizes BJP, Advocates for Education as Nations Top Priority

New Delhi, July 11: Congress MP Imran Masood criticized the policies of the central and BJP governments on Friday, emphasizing that education should be the nation’s foremost priority. His remarks came in response to BJP MP Nishikant Dubey’s claim that Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi weakened the country for the sake of Muslim vote bank politics between 2004 and 2014.

Speaking to a news agency, Masood suggested that Dubey should focus on reading the NITI Aayog report instead of making inflammatory statements. The report raises concerns about the significant number of school closures across the country.

Masood asserted that approximately 92,000 schools have shut down nationwide, a serious issue that requires government attention. He stressed that the focus should be on educational challenges rather than divisive rhetoric. “Students do not belong to any religion; education is equally essential for everyone,” he stated.

He also commented on the Assam government’s budget proposal, which aims to exclude individuals with multiple marriages from welfare schemes. Masood argued that education is the key to resolving such social issues. He believes that providing quality education to children will naturally reduce such societal problems.

Referencing Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s views on education, he noted that education is the most effective means of social change and urged the government to strengthen primary schools.

Additionally, Masood addressed the Union Home Ministry’s guidelines regarding the national anthem “Vande Mataram,” issued for the second time in five months. He emphasized the need to educate the populace first. “Education and healthcare should be completely free in the country, ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens,” he asserted.

Responding to protests by BJP workers against the denial of a ticket to former minister Narottam Mishra in the Datia by-election in Madhya Pradesh, Masood remarked, “As you sow, so shall you reap.” He claimed that if a legislator’s membership is forcibly revoked, they must also face the political consequences.

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