The BJP, RSS or Modi are not the entire Hindu society-Rahul Gandhi
New Delhi | Desk: On July 1, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi sharply criticized the ruling BJP in the Lok Sabha, accusing self-proclaimed Hindus of perpetuating “violence and hate” incessantly.
His remarks provoked a vehement backlash from the treasury benches, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserting that labeling the entire Hindu society as violent is a grave accusation.
Gandhi clarified that his critique was aimed specifically at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and Modi, not the broader Hindu community. Holding up an image of Lord Shiva, Gandhi emphasized the deity’s message of fearlessness and non-violence, and invoked the teachings of various religions to underscore his point.
“All religions and our esteemed leaders advocate for non-violence and courage, yet those who claim to be Hindus only promote violence, hatred, and deceit. You are not true Hindus,” Gandhi declared, sparking a robust reaction from the treasury benches.
Home Minister Amit Shah demanded that Gandhi apologize to the House and the nation for offending millions who take pride in their Hindu identity. Shah countered by referencing the Emergency and the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, asserting that Gandhi had no moral ground to speak on non-violence given the Congress’s history of spreading “terror.”
Gandhi reiterated that all religions, including Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, emphasize courage and fearlessness. He accused the BJP of systematically undermining the Constitution and the foundational principles of India, and commended the millions who resist the ruling party’s ideology.
“I was targeted on Prime Minister Modi’s orders, faced over 20 cases, had my house confiscated, and endured 55 hours of ED interrogation,” Gandhi stated, yet expressed pride in the collective effort to safeguard the Constitution.
He noted with satisfaction that BJP members were now echoing his call of ‘Jai Samvidhan.’ Gandhi concluded by expressing his pride in being part of the Opposition, stating, “I am happy and proud to be in the Opposition. For us, there is something more important than power—it is the truth.”
