The political atmosphere in India intensified as BJP MP Anurag Thakur lodged a formal complaint against Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of misconduct during a heated session in Parliament. The incident, which has sparked nationwide attention, revolves around allegations that Rahul Gandhi assaulted two BJP MPs and acted in a manner that undermines the sanctity of parliamentary proceedings.
Details of the Incident in Parliament
On a day already rife with tension, members of the INDIA Alliance, led by Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, gathered near the statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in the Parliament complex for a protest. The event soon escalated, with both opposition and BJP MPs engaging in counter-demonstrations. Amid the commotion, reports emerged of a physical altercation involving Rahul Gandhi.
According to BJP sources, Gandhi allegedly pushed BJP MPs Pratap Chandra Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput, resulting in their injuries. Both MPs were subsequently hospitalized, with BJP leaders expressing grave concern over the incident.
Anurag Thakur’s Statement and Formal Complaint
Reacting to the events, Anurag Thakur accused the Gandhi family of behaving as though they are “above the law.” Speaking to reporters, he stated:
“Rahul Gandhi’s conduct in Parliament is unacceptable. Today’s incident highlights his arrogance and disregard for parliamentary decorum. We have filed a complaint with the Delhi Police under multiple sections, including 109, 115, 117, 125, 131, and 351. These charges address acts of provocation, physical assault, and attempted grievous harm.”
Thakur further claimed that Rahul Gandhi had behaved disrespectfully towards a female MP from Nagaland, aggravating the situation.
Legal Implications of the Complaint
The sections invoked in the complaint carry serious allegations:
- Section 109: Punishment for abetment of any offense.
- Section 115: Abetment of an offense punishable with death or life imprisonment.
- Section 117: Abetment of offenses involving riots or unlawful assembly.
- Section 125: Offenses related to promoting enmity between groups.
- Section 131: Abetment of mutiny or attempts to subvert order.
- Section 351: Assault or use of criminal force.
The BJP has urged authorities to ensure a fair investigation and hold the Gandhi family accountable for what they describe as “undemocratic behavior.”
Rahul Gandhi Responds to Allegations
In response to the BJP’s accusations, Rahul Gandhi dismissed the claims as baseless. Speaking at a press conference alongside Mallikarjun Kharge, he stated:
“No scuffle occurred in Parliament. The BJP is simply trying to divert attention from pressing issues, such as the allegations against the Adani Group. This is yet another attempt to suppress meaningful debate in the House.”
Gandhi also alleged that BJP MPs had intentionally obstructed opposition members, even resorting to intimidation tactics. He highlighted that BJP MPs were stationed with sticks to prevent opposition leaders from entering Parliament.
Congress’ Stand on the Adani Issue
The Congress Party has consistently raised concerns about alleged financial irregularities involving the Adani Group. Rahul Gandhi emphasized that the opposition sought to discuss this issue during the parliamentary session, but the BJP diverted attention by creating unnecessary chaos.
“The BJP’s strategy is clear: silence dissent and evade accountability. Their focus is not on governance but on shielding their allies from scrutiny,” said Gandhi.
BJP-Congress Rivalry Reaches New Heights
The clash between the BJP and Congress has reached a boiling point, with both parties accusing each other of undemocratic behavior. The BJP has labeled the Congress as a party incapable of accepting electoral losses, while Congress continues to accuse the BJP of suppressing free speech.
Anurag Thakur’s statement adds to the narrative of the BJP portraying the Gandhi family as entitled and dismissive of the law. Meanwhile, Congress counters by portraying the BJP as authoritarian and intolerant of opposition voices.
Public Reactions and Media Coverage
The incident has garnered significant attention across traditional and digital media platforms. Social media is abuzz with opinions, with hashtags like #RahulGandhiAssault and #BJPvsCongress trending. Public opinion remains polarized, reflecting the deep political divide in the country.
Prominent figures from both sides have weighed in. BJP leaders have reiterated their commitment to upholding parliamentary integrity, while Congress leaders have accused the BJP of turning Parliament into a battleground for partisan politics.
Future Implications for Indian Politics
This controversy is likely to have far-reaching consequences for Indian politics. With the 2024 general elections approaching, both BJP and Congress are expected to leverage this incident to rally their respective voter bases.
For the BJP, the narrative of holding the Gandhi family accountable could resonate with voters who view them as symbols of entitlement. Conversely, the Congress may capitalize on the BJP’s alleged diversion tactics to strengthen their position among undecided voters.
