BJP accuses ex-Police chief of 'deep political bias' after Pakistan comparison
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Mumbai: Former Mumbai police commissioner Julio Ribeiro's comments on the condition of minorities in India have sparked controversy and accusations of political bias from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The remarks were made during a book launch event in Goa, where Ribeiro expressed concerns about the potential marginalization of minorities in India, drawing parallels with the situation in Pakistan.
Ribeiro highlighted his apprehensions, stating, "Hindus and Christians in Pakistan are living in fear as second-class citizens… that may happen here (in India). This is what I fear."
He also commented on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent engagement with the Christian community on Christmas, suggesting a political motive to woo the significant Christian population in Kerala.
In response, the state BJP released a statement expressing "profound disappointment and concern" over Ribeiro's remarks. Giriraj Pai Vernekar, the Goa BJP spokesperson, accused Ribeiro of making unfounded and deeply offensive comparisons between India and Pakistan.
Vernekar criticized Ribeiro's use of phrases like "saffronised Pakistan," alleging deep-seated hatred and frustration towards the government.
Vernekar asserted, "To demean the country in an attempt to belittle the government is unbecoming of a former cop." The BJP spokesperson suggested that Ribeiro's comments reflected his discontent with a government that may not align with his ideology.
Despite attempts to seek a response from Ribeiro, the former police commissioner remained silent, neither answering calls nor responding to messages.