New Delhi, September 14, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Islamic scholar Mufti Wajahat Qasmi on Monday criticised Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on the all-vegetarian menu served at the BRICS Summit gala dinner, saying occasions of international significance should be used to showcase India’s cultural traditions.
Gandhi had posted a picture of chole bhature on social media and said, “For the record: 80 per cent of Indians are non-vegetarian. Indian non-vegetarian food is delicious. As are my sister’s chole bhature.”
Reacting to the post, Qasmi said India’s civilisational traditions should be respected. He argued that people were free to choose their food but said international events provided an opportunity for countries to present their culture and heritage.
“If he wants to eat non-vegetarian food, there is no problem; no one is stopping him. But every country uses such occasions to showcase its culture, civilisation and traditions,” Qasmi told IANS.
He also praised the BRICS Summit and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, while saying Gandhi should avoid what he described as “petty remarks” that could diminish his stature.
On Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s statement that the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) would be implemented in all 21 states governed by the BJP-led NDA before 2029, Qasmi expressed support for the proposal.
He said the UCC would contribute to the country’s development and argued for a common legal framework across India. Qasmi cited Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami as the first state leader to implement the UCC and said preparations were underway elsewhere.
“We hope the UCC will be implemented across the country during its tenure. We welcome it,” he said.
Qasmi also welcomed the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ before the National Anthem ahead of the India-Afghanistan T20I match. He said the National Song had been accorded the same legal respect as the National Anthem and urged people to sing it as an expression of patriotism.
On reports of 252 madrasas being closed in West Bengal, Qasmi said religious institutions should function within the law. He alleged that political patronage had contributed to some mosques and madrasas being established illegally.
“If such madrasas are being shut down or demolished, or such mosques and madrasas are being sealed and legal action is being taken, it is a good thing,” he said, adding that Muslims should welcome lawful action against illegal religious institutions.
FOLLOW NOW
