Mumbai, March 3: Congress leader Hussain Dalwai sparked debate by stating that protests following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei are not wrong. ‘He was their leader. The way he was killed—is that a good thing? Some people will grieve, and if they protest in sorrow, I see nothing wrong with that,’ Dalwai remarked, responding to an article by Sonia Gandhi on the matter.
Dalwai criticized the alleged involvement of the United States and Israel, accusing them of dictating global politics. ‘America’s politics is such that whatever they say, the world must follow. They decide how the world runs, who rules other countries—that’s completely wrong. What gives them the right? They’ve always had excellent relations with Iran,’ he asserted.
Praising Sonia Gandhi’s article, Dalwai highlighted her valid question: Why has the Indian government remained silent for days after the incident? ‘Our government should lead and has always done so. Iran has stood by us. Instead of escalating war, parties should come to the table for talks,’ he urged.
On internal politics, Dalwai addressed rifts in the MVA over a Rajya Sabha seat. ‘Congress leaders say Mallikarjun Kharge is the leader there. We need our numbers intact, so give us the seat now and another in two years. Uddhav Thackeray should contest the Legislative Council seat. Congress has proposed a fair formula, and a solution will emerge soon,’ he confidently stated.
Turning to state minister Nitesh Rane’s statements, Dalwai advised focus on governance. ‘As a minister, develop Konkan. Fish are dying there due to chemical industries. One chemical leak could kill people. Konkan had 132 unique fish species found nowhere else. Do your ministry’s work instead of Hindu-Muslim rhetoric. Are you the CM or PM? You’re just a small minister—stick to your duties,’ he lambasted.