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The Indian political landscape has once again been thrown into a storm of controversy, with Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu igniting a firestorm of criticism by labelling Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, as the 'number 1 terrorist' and 'the biggest enemy of the country.' Bittu's remarks, delivered during a heated exchange with the media on Sunday, were a direct response to Gandhi's recent statements on various issues, including those related to the Sikh community.
Bittu, a BJP member, alleged that Gandhi, who has spent a significant portion of his life abroad, does not genuinely care for India and has a history of making harmful statements while on foreign soil. He further cited the support of Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun for Gandhi's remarks on the Sikh community as evidence of his alleged anti-national sentiments. Pannun, a prominent figure advocating for an independent Sikh state, had praised Gandhi's statement on the 'existential threat to Sikhs in India', citing historical grievances faced by the community since 1947.
Bittu's inflammatory language and his assertion that Gandhi is deserving of an award for catching the 'number one terrorist' sparked outrage among Congress leaders. Senior Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit expressed pity for Bittu, highlighting his inconsistent political stances, including past support for Rahul Gandhi before joining the BJP. Tariq Anwar, another Congress leader, dismissed Bittu's accusations as absurd, accusing him of using this rhetoric to prove his loyalty to the BJP and demonstrate his opposition to Rahul Gandhi. The Congress party has vehemently condemned Bittu's remarks, viewing them as a politically motivated attack on their leader.
This latest episode in India's political theatre highlights the deep divisions and acrimony that have come to characterize the country's political landscape. Accusations of terrorism, separatism, and anti-nationalism are frequently thrown around, often serving to further polarize public opinion and escalate tensions. While it is vital to engage in robust political discourse, the use of such inflammatory language can have dangerous consequences, potentially exacerbating societal divisions and hindering constructive dialogue.
Source: Rahul Gandhi ‘No.1 terrorist’, not an Indian, says Union minister Ravneet Bittu; Congress hits back