“those who call themselves Hindu only talk about violence, hatred, untruth…” says Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha

On Monday, July 1, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition, ignited controversy with his comments in the Lok Sabha, leading to a rare intervention by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Gandhi’s remarks suggested that those identifying as Hindus only promote violence, hatred, and falsehoods, causing uproar among the ruling NDA’s MPs and prompting calls for an apology.

During his parliamentary address, Gandhi stated, “All our great men have spoken about non-violence and eliminating fear… But those who call themselves Hindu only talk about violence, hatred, untruth…”

PM Modi’s Intervention

Prime Minister Modi took serious offense to Gandhi’s comments, expressing his objection by stating, “Calling the entire Hindu community violent is a very serious matter.” His intervention highlighted the gravity with which the ruling party viewed Gandhi’s statement.

Amit Shah’s Demand for Apology

Union Home Minister Amit Shah further condemned Gandhi’s remarks, emphasizing the inappropriate association of violence with a religion. “The Leader of the Opposition has clearly stated that those who identify as Hindu speak of and commit violence. He is unaware that millions proudly call themselves Hindu. Associating violence with any religion is wrong. He should apologize,” Shah asserted.

The heated exchange underscored the deep divide and sensitivity surrounding religious identities and violence in India’s political discourse.

Reactions and Political Fallout

The controversial remarks by Rahul Gandhi have sparked widespread reactions both within and outside the parliament. Supporters of Gandhi argue that his comments were taken out of context and meant to highlight the principles of non-violence and truth promoted by India’s great leaders. Critics, however, view his statement as a broad-brush attack on the Hindu community, calling it divisive and inflammatory.

Rahul Gandhi’s remarks have stirred a significant controversy, drawing strong reactions from the ruling party and prompting demands for an apology. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions in India’s political landscape and the sensitivities surrounding religious and communal identities