Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi sparked political controversy on Monday by carrying a handbag with a bold “Palestine” tag to Parliament. The move has reignited debates over her stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict and drew sharp criticism from BJP leaders, who labeled it as “communal posturing.”
Priyanka Gandhi, vocal about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, had previously called Israel’s actions “barbaric and inhuman.” A day earlier, she hosted Palestine embassy representative Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer at her residence, where the envoy congratulated her on her Lok Sabha win and urged India to play a larger role in brokering peace in the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Political Reactions
BJP leaders were quick to attack Gandhi. Union Minister Anurag Thakur questioned her priorities:
“Was the bag a statement? Why hasn’t she spoken on Bangladeshi Hindus’ issues? Parliament is for addressing concerns of 140 crore Indians, not for personal agendas.”
Amit Malviya, BJP IT cell chief, accused Gandhi of “communal virtue signalling.” He tweeted:
“Carrying a Palestine bag in Parliament is crass communal posturing. Congress has now become the New Muslim League.”
Meanwhile, BJP MP Gulam Ali Khatana dismissed the gesture as a publicity stunt:
“When rejected by voters, such actions are aimed at gaining attention.”
Responding to critics, Gandhi hit back:
“Let them focus on addressing atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh instead of saying stupid things.”
India’s Official Stance on Israel-Palestine
India continues to advocate for a two-state solution, calling for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reaffirmed this policy in Parliament last week, highlighting India’s support for 10 of 13 UN resolutions on Palestine since the October 2023 Israel-Hamas conflict.
India has also sent 70 metric tonnes of humanitarian aid and contributed $5 million to Palestinian refugee support.
Historical India-Palestine Relations
India’s relationship with Palestine spans nearly five decades. In 1974, India became the first non-Arab country to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO). The ties deepened in 1996 with the opening of India’s representative office in Gaza, which later shifted to Ramallah.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
India has strongly condemned the October 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel while urging restraint in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 40,000 deaths in Gaza, raising global concerns over civilian casualties.
