'Not All Hijabs Are Unacceptable to BJP': Pawan Khera Slams Centre Over Covering Slums Ahead of BRICS Summit

Pawan Khera Criticizes Centre Over Slum Coverings

Congress MP Pawan Khera has criticized the BJP-led Central Government over the use of large curtains and temporary barricades to screen slum clusters and low-income neighbourhoods along important routes in New Delhi ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit.

According to the report, the coverings were installed along key transit routes as India prepared to welcome international leaders and delegates for the summit. Khera alleged that the move was aimed at concealing poverty and India's socioeconomic realities from foreign dignitaries.

Pawan Khera's 'Hijab' Remark

Khera shared a video on social media and used the term "hijab" metaphorically while criticizing the government. He alleged that the coverings were being used to hide what he described as the government's failures.

His remarks have added a political dimension to the preparations for the high-profile international summit, with the Congress questioning the government's approach to presenting Delhi to visiting leaders.

Slums Screened Along Key Routes

Large curtains and temporary barricades were reportedly placed around slum clusters and low-income neighbourhoods located along routes used by visiting dignitaries.

The issue has sparked debate over whether such measures are appropriate during an international event. Supporters of the arrangements may view them as part of broader preparations for the summit, while critics argue that hiding disadvantaged communities does not address the underlying socioeconomic challenges.

Congress Raises Wider Questions on Global Engagement

The controversy came as Congress MP Manish Tewari also spoke about India's engagement with international groupings such as BRICS, ASEAN, the Quad and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

Tewari argued that international engagement should be viewed as an ongoing process rather than being judged only by the immediate outcome of individual meetings. He said the global order is undergoing significant change and that continued dialogue between countries remains important.

India Hosts 18th BRICS Summit

India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, 2026, under its BRICS chairmanship.

India's 2026 BRICS theme is "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability." Development, sustainability and innovation are among the key areas of focus during India's chairmanship.

Political Debate Ahead of the Summit

The controversy over the coverings has highlighted a broader political debate about how India presents itself during major international events. While the government has been preparing Delhi to host global leaders, opposition leaders have used the arrangements to raise questions about poverty, inequality and the visibility of marginalized communities.

Pawan Khera's comments have therefore become part of the wider political discussion surrounding the BRICS Summit and India's international image.

Conclusion

Pawan Khera's criticism of the Centre over covering slum areas ahead of the BRICS Summit has triggered a political debate about poverty, governance and India's image before international visitors. As India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit, the controversy highlights the competing political narratives surrounding the country's global diplomatic engagements.