BJP Accuses Congress of Undermining Democratic Norms; Files Complaints Against Rahul Gandhi
Published: December 19, 2024, 10:34 PM IST | New Delhi
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday, alleging that his conduct in Parliament was “unruly and shameful.” The ruling party declared Mr. Gandhi unfit to serve as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, accusing him of injuring two BJP MPs during a commotion.
The incident reportedly occurred when Mr. Gandhi attempted to make his way into Parliament, allegedly causing injuries to BJP MPs Pratap Chandra Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput. The BJP has filed formal complaints against Mr. Gandhi, citing multiple sections of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, including those pertaining to voluntarily causing hurt, criminal intimidation, and endangering personal safety.
BJP Alleges “Hooliganism” against Rahul Gandhi
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan addressed a press conference at the BJP headquarters, where he detailed the incident. According to Mr. Chouhan, security personnel had requested Mr. Gandhi to take an alternate route to avoid the protesting BJP MPs. However, he claimed Mr. Gandhi deliberately approached the protest site, leading to a confrontation.
“Rahul Gandhi’s actions were nothing short of hooliganism,” said Mr. Chouhan. “Mr. Sarangi suffered a head injury and had to be hospitalized, while Mr. Rajput was found unconscious. Such behavior is unimaginable in a civil society.”
BJP leaders, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, visited Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital to check on the injured MPs. Mr. Singh emphasized that such incidents have no place in a healthy democracy.
BJP’s Complaints and Allegations
Three BJP MPs—Anurag Singh Thakur, Bansuri Swaraj, and Hemang Joshi—filed a formal complaint at the Sansad Marg police station, invoking charges of assault and criminal force. Additionally, BJP MP S. Phangon Konyak alleged that Mr. Gandhi’s aggressive behavior made her feel uncomfortable during the altercation.
Union Minister Chouhan also accused the Congress of displaying arrogance instead of remorse in their response to the incident. “Their press conference lacked any semblance of regret. Instead, it was filled with audacity,” he remarked.
Congress Defends Rahul Gandhi
Meanwhile, the Congress party dismissed the BJP’s allegations, describing them as a distraction from more pressing issues. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra accused the BJP of fabricating the charges to shield Union Home Minister Amit Shah from criticism. She referred to the accusations as a “conspiracy to divert attention.”
National Conference leader Omar Abdullah also came to Mr. Gandhi’s defense, asserting, “Rahul Gandhi will not push anyone or act in a rude manner.”
Cultural Sensitivities and Parliamentary Decorum
Highlighting another aspect of the controversy, Mr. Chouhan accused Mr. Gandhi of disrespecting a tribal woman MP. “Such behavior is against Indian culture. How can we allow this to happen in the premises of Parliament?” he questioned, adding that the Congress party’s actions undermine the sanctity of democratic institutions.
The Union Minister also criticized the Congress MPs for disrupting proceedings by occupying the Speaker’s podium. “Their actions are not only disrespectful to the Speaker but also detrimental to the dignity of Parliament,” he added.
Broader Implications for Democracy
The BJP expressed concerns about the broader implications of the Congress party’s behavior for Indian democracy. “Where is the Congress taking our democracy?” Mr. Chouhan asked, urging the Opposition to reflect on its role in upholding democratic values.
As the controversy escalates, it has further strained relations between the ruling BJP and the Opposition Congress. With formal complaints filed and investigations underway, the incident has raised serious questions about decorum and accountability in Parliament.
This incident underscores the growing polarization in Indian politics, with each side accusing the other of undermining democratic principles. Whether this episode will lead to constructive dialogue or deepen the existing divide remains to be seen.
