New Delhi, July 12: Seema Malik, a leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction), addressed several pressing issues, including the tragic capsizing of a boat carrying Indian tourists in Vietnam, the Uttarakhand government’s decision to withdraw funding for madrasahs, the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation scandal, Assam’s polygamy policy, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to New Zealand. During her remarks, she raised multiple questions regarding the central and BJP governments.
Expressing her condolences over the boat incident in Vietnam that claimed the lives of 15 Indians, Malik described it as a deeply saddening and shocking event. She emphasized the pain of families who had gone on vacation only to face such a tragedy. Malik extended her sympathies to the victims’ families, stating that her party stands with them during this difficult time. She hopes for a successful rescue operation that brings more people to safety and noted that the causes of the incident will be revealed after a thorough investigation.
Regarding the Uttarakhand Cabinet’s decision to stop government grants for madrasahs, Malik urged the government to reconsider this choice. She accused the government of adopting a discriminatory attitude towards minorities. Citing Articles 29 and 30 of the Constitution, which grant minorities the right to establish and manage educational institutions, she warned that halting support for madrasahs would severely impact the education of underprivileged children.
Malik argued that if the government genuinely aims to integrate the minority community into the mainstream, it should enhance educational opportunities rather than restrict them. Such decisions, she claimed, promote divisive politics within society.
In response to BJP MP Nishikant Dubey’s allegations against Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, Malik stated that she does not take his comments seriously. She pointed out that Dubey frequently makes controversial statements that lack factual basis. The reality regarding the Nehru-Gandhi family remains unchanged, and the public is well aware of their contributions.
On Assam’s decision to deny government benefits to those practicing polygamy, Malik asserted that no one supports such a social evil. However, she cautioned against targeting a specific community. If there are social ills, they should be addressed uniformly across all communities, and reform efforts should be made without discrimination.
Malik expressed support for Prime Minister Modi’s statements during his New Zealand visit about collaborating with both nations to combat terrorism. She emphasized that all political parties should unite with the government on this issue, welcoming any international cooperation against terrorism.
Reacting to controversial remarks made by Maulana Sajid Rashidi regarding women, Malik strongly condemned the statement. She argued that linking late marriages to incidents of sexual assault is entirely wrong and irresponsible. Such crimes have occurred against young girls worldwide, making it inappropriate to associate them with marriage age. She advocated for girls to marry only when they are educated, mature, and capable of making their own decisions. Those holding such views need to become more aware of women’s rights and societal issues.
Regarding the Ram Temple donation scandal, Malik responded to the temple treasurer Govind Giri’s claim that the incident is a stain on the faith of millions of devotees. She questioned Giri’s responsibility if he was not involved in financial processes. Donations made by people across the country, based on their faith, must be transparently investigated if any discrepancies arise.
Malik insisted that merely arresting a few employees or accepting resignations will not uncover the truth of the matter. She called for a judicial and CBI investigation under the supervision of a retired or current Supreme Court judge. There is widespread dissatisfaction with the SIT investigation, and concerns about the impartiality of the new inquiry committee have also been raised. Only a transparent and independent investigation can restore public trust in this matter.
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