In a fiery Lok Sabha session on July 1, Rahul Gandhi’s speech targeting the BJP and RSS drew massive protests, leading to several portions being expunged by the Speaker. Gandhi, in his debut speech as the Leader of Opposition, accused the ruling party of dividing people on communal lines and launched a scathing attack on the Modi government over issues concerning minorities, the NEET row, and the Agnipath scheme. He called for fearlessness, quoting religious figures like Prophet Muhammad, Guru Nanak, and Jesus Christ, and held up pictures of Lord Shiva and others to underscore the message.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi intervened, condemning Gandhi for allegedly calling the entire Hindu community violent, a charge that prompted Home Minister Amit Shah to demand an apology. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also rebutted Gandhi’s criticisms of the Agnipath scheme. The Speaker reminded Gandhi that displaying placards in the House was against the rules.
In response to Gandhi’s allegations, RSS leader Sunil Ambekar stated, “It is unfortunate that people holding important positions in Parliament are associating Hindutva with violence. Whether Vivekananda or Gandhi… Hindutva is a symbol of harmony and brotherhood.”
Despite the disruptions and expunged remarks, Gandhi’s speech emphasized the importance of resisting divisive politics and maintaining the principles of the Constitution. His comments on industrialists Adani and Ambani, and on the Agniveer Scheme, were also removed from the official records, reflecting the intense debate and political tensions in the Parliament.
