Anurag Thakur, a prominent BJP MP, has launched a sharp verbal attack on Congress and its leader, Rahul Gandhi, accusing them of aligning with anti-Indian forces. In his criticism, Thakur emphasised the slogan, "Congress Ka Haath, Bharat Virodhiyon Ke Saath," which translates to Congress’ hand is with India’s enemies.
He accused Rahul Gandhi of changing his stance depending on where he speaks, drawing a parallel between Gandhi and Farooq Abdullah, the National Conference leader, who has faced similar accusations of inconsistent statements between Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir.
Thakur's remarks were made during an interaction with the media, where he claimed that Rahul Gandhi often misrepresents India during his foreign visits. According to him, whenever Gandhi travels abroad, his speeches focus on discrediting India and spreading falsehoods.
Thakur highlighted Gandhi’s comments about Sikhs, including those on their traditional attire, like turbans and kadas, claiming that such comments reflected disrespect toward the Sikh community.
Thakur also reminded the public that it was under Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure, Rahul Gandhi’s father, when the Sikh community faced disrespect, particularly during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. He added that it was the current Modi government that took the initiative to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to deliver justice to the victims.
Taking his accusations further, Thakur pointed out instances where Rahul Gandhi allegedly met with anti-India figures, whether in China, the US, or other foreign nations.
He referred to a recent meeting between Gandhi and US officials whom Thakur accused of harbouring an anti-India agenda. Thakur claimed that the Defence Minister of Pakistan also acknowledged that Congress and Pakistan share similar goals and thoughts, further fueling his criticism of Gandhi.
The BJP leader's comments come in the wake of Rahul Gandhi’s recent visit to the United States, where the Congress leader reportedly made remarks on reservations that stirred controversy.
Thakur stressed that Gandhi’s consistent opposition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi has now extended to opposition against India itself, accusing Congress of siding with anti-national forces.
He also added that while PM Modi represents India on global platforms, Congress is continuously seen aligning with individuals and groups that oppose the country's interests.
Thakur did not stop at accusing Gandhi of betrayal but also demanded that Rahul Gandhi apologise to the public for his behaviour. According to the BJP MP, the Congress leader’s actions have brought shame upon the country, and he should own up to his remarks that, according to Thakur, hurt India's image on the international stage.
The BJP has repeatedly criticised Rahul Gandhi’s foreign visits, often accusing him of misrepresenting facts about India and tarnishing the country's image. This latest attack, ahead of key political events, appears to be a part of the BJP's strategy to portray Congress as a party disconnected from national interests.
As both major political parties ramp up their rhetoric, the tone of the ongoing political discourse is likely to remain heated, especially with state elections and other critical political milestones approaching.