Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Congress dismissed the recent FIR filed against Rahul Gandhi, calling it a “badge of honour” and accusing the BJP of political vendetta and diversionary tactics. The FIR stems from allegations that Mr. Gandhi injured two BJP MPs, Pratap Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput, during a scuffle at the Parliament premises.
Congress Responds Strongly to FIR
Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal described the FIR as retaliation for Mr. Gandhi’s protest against Home Minister Amit Shah’s controversial remarks on Dr. BR Ambedkar.
“This FIR is nothing but a diversionary tactic. A case against him for defending Babasaheb’s legacy is a badge of honour. Rahul Ji is already facing 26 FIRs due to the BJP’s political vendetta. This latest FIR will not deter him or the Congress from standing up against the casteist RSS-BJP regime,” Mr. Venugopal stated.
He also questioned the lack of action on complaints filed by Congress women MPs, alleging physical assault by BJP leaders during the altercation.
BJP’s Allegations Against Gandhi
BJP MPs, led by Anurag Thakur, filed a police complaint against Mr. Gandhi, accusing him of pushing their colleagues during a protest, leading to injuries. Mr. Thakur termed the incident as an act of “arrogance,” alleging that Mr. Gandhi ignored security instructions and created the confrontation.
Congress Denies Allegations, Files Counter-Complaint
Congress leaders refuted the BJP’s claims, accusing BJP MPs of blocking Mr. Gandhi’s peaceful protest. Party chief Mallikarjun Kharge claimed he was violently pushed during the incident. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra alleged that BJP MPs carrying sticks obstructed Mr. Gandhi’s path.
The Congress has filed a counter-complaint against BJP MPs at the Parliament House police station, accusing them of instigating the chaos.
Rahul Gandhi Receives Support Amid Controversy
National Conference leader Omar Abdullah defended Mr. Gandhi, stating, “I know Rahul Gandhi; he would not push anyone.”
However, BJP MP Nagaland’s S Phangnon Konyak alleged misconduct by Mr. Gandhi during the altercation, claiming that his proximity made her feel “extremely uncomfortable.” She has raised the issue with Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar.
Privilege Notice Filed Against Rahul Gandhi
In a separate matter, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey has submitted a breach of privilege notice against Mr. Gandhi, accusing him of sharing a “criminally edited” video of Home Minister Amit Shah’s speech. Mr. Dubey called Mr. Gandhi’s actions “political bankruptcy” and urged strict action for violating parliamentary decorum.