A sharp political confrontation erupted on Monday after senior Congress leader and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot claimed that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi would have banned the BJP if she were alive today. The remark sparked immediate backlash from BJP leaders, who accused the Congress of displaying an anti-democratic mindset.
Gehlot Launches Fresh Attack on BJP
Addressing a public event in Jaipur, Gehlot alleged that the country’s political environment had become increasingly divisive and warned that communal polarisation posed a serious challenge to India’s social fabric.
The veteran Congress leader argued that religious divisions were being deepened for political gains and claimed that citizens needed to remain vigilant against such trends.
Gehlot said that if a leader like Indira Gandhi were present in today’s political landscape, she would not have tolerated what he described as the BJP’s style of politics.
Questions Raised Over Muslim Representation
During his speech, Gehlot also questioned the BJP’s approach towards minority representation in elections. Referring to Uttar Pradesh politics, he asked why the ruling party had not fielded more Muslim candidates despite claiming to represent all sections of society.
He suggested that even a symbolic representation would have sent a message of inclusiveness and national unity.
BJP Hits Back Strongly
The BJP responded swiftly to Gehlot’s comments. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju accused the Congress of glorifying authoritarian politics and said the statement reflected the party’s historical attitude towards democratic institutions.
Taking to social media, Rijiju said Gehlot’s remarks reminded people of the Emergency era and warned citizens against what he described as the Congress party’s dynastic politics.
Poonawalla Targets Congress
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla also criticised the Congress leader, alleging that the party remained uncomfortable with the political expression of Hindu identity.
He argued that Hindutva had been recognised by the courts as a way of life and accused the Congress of repeatedly attacking sentiments associated with it.
Political Debate Intensifies
Gehlot’s comments have added fresh fuel to the ongoing war of words between the Congress and the BJP ahead of key political battles. While Congress leaders continue to accuse the ruling party of fostering social divisions, the BJP has countered by portraying the opposition as intolerant of ideological differences.
