In a fiery speech in the Lok Sabha on Monday, Congress MP and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His remarks, accompanied by posters of religious figures including Lord Shiva, triggered a heated exchange and widespread protests from BJP members.
Gandhi began his address by holding a picture of Lord Shiva and greeting the assembly with “Jai Samvidhan” (Hail the Constitution). He emphasized themes of “fearlessness” and “non-violence,” asserting that true Hindus do not spread fear and hatred.
“If you look at Lord Shiva’s image, you would know that Hindus can never spread fear and hatred, but BJP spreads fear and hatred 24/7… All religions and all our great men talk about non-violence and fearlessness, but those who call themselves Hindus only talk about violence, hatred and falsehood… Aap Hindu ho hi nahi (You are not Hindus),” Gandhi declared, holding up placards with images of Guru Nanak, Jesus Christ, and a quote from the Quran.
Gandhi’s remarks led to massive protests from the treasury benches. Prime Minister Modi interrupted Gandhi’s speech, stating that labeling the entire Hindu society as “violent” is a “serious matter.” Union Home Minister Amit Shah demanded an apology from Gandhi for “hurting the feelings” of millions of Hindus who take pride in their identity.
Gandhi, however, clarified that his comments were directed specifically at the BJP, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and Modi, not at the entire Hindu community. “The BJP, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), or Modi are not the entire Hindu society,” he retorted.
The session saw Speaker Om Birla opposing the display of religious posters, further adding to the tension in the house. Gandhi’s speech, his first as the Leader of the Opposition, has set off a significant controversy, drawing strong reactions from political leaders and the public alike.