New Delhi, India – Following controversial remarks made in Parliament about Hinduism that sparked intense debate, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has taken another jab at the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday. This comes in the wake of an attack on the Gujarat Congress office, allegedly carried out by members of the Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP).
In a social media post, Gandhi condemned the attack on the Gujarat Congress office, labeling it a “cowardly act” and linking it to his broader criticisms of the BJP. He expressed optimism about the INDIA alliance’s chances in the upcoming state assembly elections.
Emphasizing his earlier comments on Hinduism, Gandhi reiterated that BJP members inciting violence lack a true understanding of the religion’s principles. “The violent attack on the Gujarat Congress office only solidifies my argument about the BJP and the Sangh Parivar. Those within the BJP who propagate violence and hatred do not comprehend the core tenets of Hinduism,” the Raebareli MP stated.
He further declared, “The people of Gujarat see through their lies and will deliver a definitive verdict against the BJP government. Remember my words – INDIA will emerge victorious in Gujarat!”
In response to Gandhi’s statements in Parliament, the Congress office in Ahmedabad was vandalized as a form of protest. Congress spokesperson Hemang Raval confirmed that a police report had been filed, pointing fingers at members of the Bajrang Dal and VHP for the act.
The escalating tensions led to clashes between BJP and Congress supporters outside the party’s office on Tuesday evening, with reports of stones being thrown at the building. BJP loyalists demanded an apology from Gandhi for his remarks in the Lok Sabha.
During his parliamentary address on Monday, Gandhi accused the BJP and RSS of promoting violence and animosity under the guise of Hinduism. He directly called out those identifying as Hindus, accusing them of perpetrating violence and spreading hatred.
The ongoing confrontations reflect the deep-seated political and religious divisions in India, with Gandhi’s criticism of the BJP and defense of Hinduism serving as a focal point for debate and contention in the country’s political landscape.