AHMEDABAD, INDIA – Workers from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress engaged in violent clashes outside the Gujarat Congress headquarters. The altercation ensued as a protest against remarks made by former Congress president Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha. Gandhi criticized the BJP’s promotion of violence and hatred, stating that they lack an understanding of fundamental Hindu principles.
The incident escalated as stones were hurled between the two groups outside the party headquarters in Ahmedabad. The BJP accused Congress workers of instigating violence at what they deemed a “peaceful protest,” while opposition leaders pointed fingers at BJP members for initiating the clash. Police detained several workers and leaders from both parties at the scene in the Paldi area.
Both the BJP and Congress claimed injuries among their workers during the confrontation and vowed to file complaints with the police. Television footage captured scenes of party members from both sides engaging in physical altercations outside the Congress’ Gujarat headquarters, Rajiv Gandhi Bhavan. Despite police intervention, individuals continued to throw stones at each other.
Gujarat Congress working president Himmatsingh Patel condemned the BJP for the attack on the party office, attributing their actions to frustration following Gandhi’s statement on non-violence in religion. Patel asserted that the incident highlighted a breakdown of law and order in Gujarat. Amidst the chaos, Gandhi reasserted confidence in the people of Gujarat, emphasizing that India would prevail in the state.
The clash underlines the ongoing political tensions between the BJP and Congress in Gujarat, illustrating a volatile environment within the state’s political landscape. As both parties navigate disputes through protests and clashes, the public remains concerned about the escalating confrontations and their implications for governance and public safety. With continued unrest, the authorities face mounting pressure to maintain peace and address underlying issues fuelling the political discord in the region.