Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi stirred controversy in the Lok Sabha on Monday by accusing those who identify as Hindus of engaging in “violence and hate” continuously. This remark sparked significant protests from BJP members, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating that labeling the entire Hindu community as violent is a serious allegation.
In response to the backlash, Gandhi clarified that his comments were directed at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and not the entire Hindu society. He emphasized that the BJP, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and Modi do not represent all Hindus. Holding up a picture of Lord Shiva, Gandhi highlighted the deity’s message of fearlessness and non-violence, and referenced teachings from various religions to support his point.
“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 stated.
His remarks incited a strong reaction from the treasury benches. Home Minister Amit Shah demanded an apology from Gandhi to both the House and the country, asserting that Gandhi had hurt the sentiments of millions who take pride in their Hindu identity. Shah countered Gandhi’s points by referencing the Emergency and the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, accusing the Congress of having spread “terror” in the country.
Gandhi, citing teachings from Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, reiterated that all religions preach courage and non-violence. He accused the BJP of systematically attacking the Constitution and the fundamental idea of India, claiming that millions have resisted the party’s ideology.
“I was attacked on the orders of Prime Minister Modi. There were 20-plus cases (against me), (my) house was taken away, 55 hours of interrogation by the ED,” Gandhi said. Despite these challenges, he expressed pride in the collective effort to protect the Constitution. “It feels nice that BJP people are now repeating ‘Jai Samvidhan’ after me,” he added.
Gandhi also voiced his satisfaction with being in the opposition, stating, “I am happy and proud to be in the opposition. For us, there is something more than power, it is the truth.”
During his speech, Gandhi held up a picture of Lord Shiva, prompting Speaker Om Birla to remind him of the rules against displaying placards in the House. Gandhi maintained his stance that all religions, including Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism, stress the importance of courage and fearlessness.
