Hours after Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, launched a fierce attack on the BJP on Monday, some of his statements were expunged from the Parliament records.
Rahul Gandhi accused the ruling party leaders of dividing people along communal lines, sparking massive protests from the treasury benches. Prime Minister Narendra Modi rebuked Rahul Gandhi for allegedly calling the entire Hindu community violent. The Congress leader was speaking during the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President’s address to a joint sitting of Parliament.
During his speech, Rahul Gandhi quoted Prophet Muhammad to emphasize the Quran’s message of fearlessness. Holding up pictures of Lord Shiva, Guru Nanak, and Jesus Christ, he referenced Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, Buddhism, and Jainism to underscore the importance of fearlessness. He cited the attributes of Lord Shiva and the teachings of Guru Nanak, Jesus Christ, Buddha, and Mahavir, stating that all religions and great leaders preach, “daro mat, darao mat” (do not be scared, do not scare others).
However, Rahul Gandhi’s remarks led to an uproar from the treasury benches, resulting in the Chair striking them off the record. Expunged statements included Rahul Gandhi’s accusations that the BJP treats minorities unfairly, comments on industrialists Adani and Ambani, claims that the NEET exam favors the rich over meritorious students, and his assertion that the Agniveer Scheme originates from the PMO (Prime Minister’s Office) rather than the Indian Army. Throughout his speech, which lasted about an hour and 40 minutes, Gandhi faced interruptions from at least five cabinet ministers, including Home Minister Amit Shah, who demanded an apology.
Rahul Gandhi’s debut speech as the Leader of the Opposition saw Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra observing from the visitors’ gallery. As treasury bench members protested, Gandhi declared, “Aap Hindu ho hi nahi” (You are not Hindus). He argued that Hinduism advocates standing with the truth without fear.
Prime Minister Modi intervened, stating, “This issue is very serious. Calling the entire Hindu community violent is a serious issue.”
In his concluding remarks, Rahul Gandhi urged the ruling party not to spread fear or hatred. “Do not think of the opposition as your enemies. We are ready to discuss anything you want to. Let us work together to take the country forward,” he said.
Parts of Mallikarjun Kharge’s Speech Also Expunged
Portions of Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, were also expunged from the Parliament records. According to an official document, words such as ‘Satyanash’ (annihilate), ‘Ghamand’ (arrogance), and ‘Mujra’ (a dance performance by women that emerged during Mughal rule in India) were removed. Additionally, statements where Kharge accused PM Modi of dividing society and spreading misinformation were also expunged.
