The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of misconduct in Parliament. The controversy erupted after the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha addressed a press conference to clarify allegations of pushing two BJP MPs during a heated exchange in the Parliament complex.
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Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan led the BJP’s response, expressing disappointment that neither Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge nor Rahul Gandhi apologized for their alleged behavior. The incident has sparked a political war of words, with both sides accusing each other of inappropriate conduct.
BJP’s Allegations Against Rahul Gandhi
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, during a press conference at the BJP headquarters, accused Rahul Gandhi of behaving in an unruly manner. He alleged that Gandhi ignored security officials’ requests to use a different gate and instead deliberately entered the area where BJP MPs were protesting.
Key Allegations by BJP:
- Physical Altercation:
- Chouhan claimed that Rahul Gandhi “behaved like a goon” and started pushing BJP MPs.
- BJP MP Pratap Sarangi (69) reportedly fell during the altercation, sustaining serious head injuries. He was admitted to the ICU and is undergoing treatment, including an MRI scan.
- Misconduct Towards Women MP:
- Nagaland MP Phangnon Konyak accused Rahul Gandhi of threatening and pushing her. She stated that she felt “uncomfortable” and “disheartened” by his behavior.
- Konyak approached the Speaker of the Rajya Sabha, alleging inappropriate treatment by Gandhi.
- Use of Physical Power:
- Chouhan questioned whether physical power would replace logic in Parliament, expressing concern over the alleged behavior of the Congress leader.
Rahul Gandhi’s Response
In a press conference earlier, Rahul Gandhi denied the allegations and instead accused BJP MPs of obstructing opposition members from entering the Parliament complex. He also demanded an apology and resignation from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing him of disrespecting Dr. BR Ambedkar.
Key Points from Rahul Gandhi’s Statement:
- Obstruction by BJP MPs:
- Gandhi alleged that BJP MPs blocked opposition members at the stairs of the Parliament complex, preventing them from entering the House.
- He claimed this act was an insult to Dr. BR Ambedkar, as opposition MPs were walking from the Ambedkar statue to the Parliament.
- Demand for Amit Shah’s Resignation:
- Gandhi accused the Union Home Minister of displaying a biased mindset and demanded his resignation.
- He reiterated that the opposition would continue to hold the government accountable for its actions.
The Incident and Its Fallout
The incident reportedly occurred at the Makar Dwar gate of the Parliament complex, where BJP MPs were staging a protest. According to BJP leaders, Rahul Gandhi intentionally entered the area despite being advised to use another gate.
Injuries and Complaints:
- BJP MP Pratap Sarangi sustained head injuries and was hospitalized.
- Nagaland MP Phangnon Konyak filed a complaint with the Rajya Sabha Speaker, alleging inappropriate behavior by Gandhi.
BJP’s Reaction:
- Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressed disappointment that neither Rahul Gandhi nor Mallikarjun Kharge apologized for the alleged misconduct.
- Chouhan emphasized that such behavior was unbecoming of a Leader of Opposition and demanded accountability.
Political Implications
The incident has further escalated tensions between the BJP and Congress, with both parties trading accusations. While the BJP has accused Rahul Gandhi of misconduct, the Congress has countered by alleging that the ruling party is stifling opposition voices in Parliament.
This controversy comes at a time when Parliament is already witnessing disruptions over various issues, including demands for the resignation of key ministers.
Conclusion
The allegations against Rahul Gandhi and the subsequent political fallout highlight the growing tensions between the BJP and Congress in Parliament. While the BJP has demanded an apology for Gandhi’s alleged misconduct, the Congress has countered with accusations of obstruction and disrespect by the ruling party.
As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Parliament will address these allegations and whether the incident will lead to further disruptions in the ongoing session. For now, the political battle between the BJP and Congress continues to dominate headlines.
FAQs
1. What are the allegations against Rahul Gandhi in Parliament?
The BJP has accused Rahul Gandhi of pushing and threatening BJP MPs during a protest at the Parliament complex. BJP MP Pratap Sarangi reportedly sustained head injuries, while Nagaland MP Phangnon Konyak alleged inappropriate behavior by Gandhi.
2. What did Rahul Gandhi say in his defense?
Rahul Gandhi denied the allegations and accused BJP MPs of blocking opposition members from entering the Parliament complex. He also demanded an apology and resignation from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing him of disrespecting Dr. BR Ambedkar.
