Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on the BJP during his speech in the Lok Sabha on Monday, accusing the ruling party of divisive tactics along communal lines. His remarks sparked vigorous protests from BJP members, including interventions from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who criticized Gandhi for labeling the entire Hindu community as violent.
During his hour and forty-minute speech, Gandhi, in his debut as the opposition leader in the Lok Sabha, was watched by his mother Sonia Gandhi and sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra from the visitors’ gallery. He underscored the theme of courage across religions, citing Prophet Muhammad and displaying images of Lord Shiva, Guru Nanak, and Jesus Christ to emphasize the universal message of fearlessness in Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Gandhi’s speech, delivered during the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the president’s address, provoked multiple interruptions from the treasury benches, with at least five cabinet ministers interjecting. Home Minister Amit Shah demanded an apology from Gandhi, while other ministers defended against his allegations, prompting a tense exchange.
Accusing the BJP of undermining constitutional values and inciting fear, Gandhi criticized the government’s handling of various issues including the Agnipath scheme and farmer protests. He also accused the BJP of pushing Manipur into civil unrest and neglecting the concerns of students regarding the NEET exam.
In response, BJP ministers and leaders held a press conference to rebut Gandhi’s claims, with Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw leading the counter-arguments. Gandhi concluded his speech by urging the ruling party to refrain from spreading fear and animosity, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue and collaboration for the country’s progress.
Later, in a social media post, Gandhi accused Narendra Modi’s government of fostering a “reign of fear” over the past decade through control of institutions and media, alleging widespread intimidation across society.