Rahul Gandhi's inaugural address as the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha on Monday was met with significant commotion and disruption in the Lower House.
At the onset of his speech, the Congress MP held up a copy of the Constitution and a picture of Lord Shiva, launching a sharp critique against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ideological partner, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Rahul's mention of 'Hindus' sparked vehement objections from BJP MPs and even elicited a rare intervention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Home Minister Amit Shah demanded an apology from the Congress MP for allegedly associating the BJP with violence.
Prime Minister Modi interjected, stating, “Calling the entire Hindu community violent is a very serious matter.”
Home Minister Amit Shah also strongly condemned Rahul Gandhi's comparison of 'violent Hindus' with the BJP, insisting that the Congress leader issue an apology.
“He fails to understand that millions of Indians proudly identify as Hindu. Does he imply that each of them advocates violence? No religion should be linked with violence. I insist that he apologize,” Amit Shah declared.
The uproar and chaos in the house were triggered by Rahul's pointed criticism of the ruling party, accusing them of promoting violence and hatred to advance their political agenda.
Addressing the House, Rahul Gandhi stated: “All our great leaders have emphasized non-violence and the eradication of fear… Yet, those who call themselves Hindu only speak of violence, hatred, and falsehood… Aap Hindu ho hi nahi (You are not even Hindu)…”
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