PM Modi Condemns Rahul Gandhi's 'Traitor' Remark as Anti-Sikh Sentiment
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi in the Rajya Sabha, accusing him of reflecting the Congress party's "hatred for Sikhs" through his comments directed at BJP MP Ravneet Singh Bittu. The Prime Minister referred to Gandhi labeling Bittu a "traitor" and asserted that this jibe constituted a profound insult to the Sikh community and its revered Gurus.
Incident Outside Parliament Sparks Political Firestorm
Referring to an altercation that occurred outside Parliament a day earlier, PM Modi highlighted that Rahul Gandhi specifically targeted Bittu because he is a Sikh and had recently left the Congress party to join the BJP. The Prime Minister emphasized that branding a citizen a "traitor" merely due to a shift in political ideology is utterly unacceptable and warned that such conduct would severely damage the Congress party's reputation.
"What happened yesterday, the 'Yuvraj' of Congress who has 'shaatir dimag' (cunning mind), called an MP of this House a traitor. His arrogance is at its peak," PM Modi stated in the House. "He did not call anyone else who has left the Congress a traitor. But he called the MP a traitor, because he is a Sikh."
Modi Labels Remark as Insult to Sikh Heritage
PM Modi further elaborated that this incident was not just a personal attack but a broader affront to the Sikh faith. "This was an insult to the Sikhs, an insult to the Gurus. This was an expression of the hatred for Sikhs that is filled in the Congress," the Prime Minister declared. He underscored that Bittu hails from a family with a legacy of sacrifice for the nation, questioning how a mere political transition could justify such a severe label as "traitor."
"This is not a small word. How can the country tolerate a citizen being called a traitor?" Modi questioned, adding that individuals who engage in such rhetoric would ultimately lead to the downfall of the Congress party.
Background of the Parliamentary Confrontation
The Prime Minister's remarks followed a heated verbal exchange between Rahul Gandhi and Ravneet Bittu on the Parliament premises on Wednesday. Gandhi, alongside other Congress MPs, was protesting at the Makar Dwar against being denied the opportunity to address the House when Bittu passed by. In videos capturing the incident, Gandhi is heard extending his arm for a handshake while saying, "Hello, brother... My traitor friend."
Bittu refused the handshake, retorting, "Desh ke dushman ke saath main haath nahin milaunga" (I won't shake hands with an enemy of the nation). As Bittu walked away, Gandhi remarked, "Don't worry, you will come back," prompting protesting MPs to raise slogans in support.
BJP Leaders Rally in Defense of Bittu
The Bharatiya Janata Party swiftly came to Bittu's defense, with prominent Sikh leaders like Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri alleging that Gandhi's comment insulted the entire Sikh community. Puri argued that referring to Bittu as a "traitor" disrespects the historical sacrifices made by Sikhs for the nation.
Bittu later responded emotionally, stating, "My grandfather, Sardar Beant Singh, was consumed by the fire that you lit in Punjab. The fire was lit by the Congress and the Gandhi family." He also criticized Gandhi's demeanor during the incident, saying he extended his hand "like a shahenshah (emperor)" and acted "like he believes he is the sole emperor of this country."
Modi Cites Historical Parallels of Congress Insults
In his address, PM Modi also referenced another instance where he claimed the Congress party had insulted Assamese people when the BJP government posthumously conferred the Bharat Ratna on cultural icon Bhupen Hazarika. This comparison aimed to underscore a pattern of behavior by the Congress towards diverse communities across India.
The controversy has ignited a fierce political debate, highlighting tensions between the BJP and Congress over issues of religious sensitivity and political decorum. As the fallout continues, it raises critical questions about the language used in political discourse and its impact on communal harmony in the country.
