Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP), launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration in the Lok Sabha. Gandhi proclaimed, “In Modi ji’s world, truth can be erased. But in reality, the truth remains. I spoke my truth, and it stands. They can expunge it all they want. Truth is truth.”
Outside Parliament, Gandhi addressed the controversy surrounding the removal of his remarks from the Lower House records. He accused the ruling party of creating communal divisions, which led to protests from the government benches. Prime Minister Modi countered, accusing Gandhi of labeling the entire Hindu community as violent.
In his debut speech as Leader of the Opposition, Gandhi responded to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s address. He invoked religious teachings, quoting figures such as Prophet Muhammad and showing images of Lord Shiva, Guru Nanak, and Jesus Christ. Gandhi stressed that all major religions advocate fearlessness. “Do not be scared, do not scare others,” he said, referencing Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Despite Gandhi’s impassioned delivery, his critical remarks about the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were expunged from the official records. These included allegations of unfair treatment of minorities, critiques of industrialists Adani and Ambani, claims that the NEET exam favors the wealthy, and accusations that the Agniveer Scheme was devised by the Prime Minister’s Office rather than the Indian Army.
During his hour-and-forty-minute speech, Gandhi faced numerous interruptions, including interventions from Prime Minister Modi and at least five cabinet ministers. Home Minister Amit Shah demanded an apology from Gandhi, reflecting the heightened tensions in the House.
Undeterred, Gandhi continued, emphasizing the universal message of courage in all religions. He challenged the BJP’s authenticity, asserting, “You are not truly Hindu. Hinduism teaches to stand with the truth and not to fear it.”
Prime Minister Modi, intervening, highlighted the seriousness of Gandhi’s accusations, stating, “This is a serious matter. Calling the entire Hindu community violent is a grave accusation.”
