In a significant political confrontation, the BJP has launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his recent statements on reservation and his meeting with US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar. The BJP accused Gandhi of aligning with anti-India forces and making divisive statements, while the Congress defended Gandhi, asserting his commitment to upholding the Constitution.
BJP's Criticism
Union Home Minister Amit Shah labeled Gandhi's remarks on the abolishment of reservation as revealing the Congress party's "anti-reservation" stance. Shah stated, "By speaking about abolishing reservation in the country, Rahul Gandhi has once again brought the Congress’s anti-reservation face to the forefront. The thoughts that were in his mind eventually found their way out as words."
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also criticized Gandhi for his comments on the Sikh community and China-India relations. Singh asserted, "The kind of claims he has made on the soil of America regarding the India-China border dispute are misleading and beyond facts."
In a post on X, Shah accused Gandhi of undermining national security and standing with forces that seek to divide the country. "Standing with forces that conspire to divide the country and making anti-national statements have become a habit for Rahul Gandhi and the Congress," Shah added.
Congress's Response
The Congress hit back, defending Gandhi's statements as aligned with constitutional values. Pawan Khera, head of Congress's media and publicity department, responded to Shah's accusations by challenging the BJP to take action, stating, "Ask him to take action, then we will expose the Prime Minister and the Home Minister both. The PM goes abroad and makes horrible comments against India and Indians, that is not anti-national?"
Manickam Tagore, a Congress MP, emphasized Gandhi's commitment to unity and equality, contrasting it with the BJP's divisive politics. "Rahul Gandhi has always stood for unity and equality, while the BJP and its ideological mentors have done the opposite. The country knows who is really messing with India’s progress," Tagore said.
The Ilhan Omar Meeting Controversy
Gandhi's meeting with Ilhan Omar, known for her critical stance on India, further fueled the BJP's accusations. Referring to Omar's visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in April 2022, Shah said, "Whether it is supporting the JKNC’s anti-national and anti-reservation agenda in J&K or making anti-India statements on foreign platforms, Rahul Gandhi has always threatened the nation’s security and hurt sentiments."
Rahul Gandhi's Statements
During his US tour, Gandhi addressed the lack of representation in India's bureaucracy and hinted at ending reservation only when India becomes a fair place. "If you look at the Indian government, there are 70 bureaucrats who run the government… Of the 70 people, there is no tribal, three Dalits and three OBCs, a minority… the fact is they aren’t getting participation. We will think of ending reservation when India is a fair place. And India is not a fair place," Gandhi said.
Conclusion
The ongoing political battle between the BJP and Congress highlights deep divisions over reservation policies and national security. As the debate continues, both parties remain steadfast in their positions, each claiming to uphold India's constitutional values and national integrity.