What is the truth behind what is said about Abdullah ibn Mas'ud, may Allah be pleased with him, having expunged the Mu'awwidhatayn from his Mushaf, and how are such reports, which are used to incite doubts, to be interpreted?

The two Surahs of refuge (Al-Falaq and An-Nas) are part of the Holy Quran. This has been established by authentic Sunnah and the consensus of the Companions and the Ummah. What was narrated from Ibn Mas'ud, may Allah be pleased with him, regarding his denial of their Quranic nature, was an error on his part, and no one agreed with him on it. This does not diminish his status and standing.