NEW DELHI: Union Minister Hardeep Puri has sharply criticized Congress MP Rahul Gandhi over remarks made during his recent visit to the United States. Gandhi’s comments included criticism of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and claimed that the ideological divide between the BJP and opposition involves questions about the rights of Sikhs to wear turbans and kada (a traditional bracelet).
Puri accused Gandhi of promoting a “dangerous narrative” and misleading the diaspora in the US. He stated, “He said that members of the Sikh community face difficulties wearing a turban or kada. Where is he getting this information from? I have worn a turban for over 60 years and a kada for even longer, and I have never encountered anyone expressing such concerns.”
Referring to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, Puri reminded Gandhi that the only significant threat to Sikh practices occurred during that period, when thousands of Sikhs were killed. He dismissed Gandhi’s current comments as highly regrettable and disconnected from the present reality of Sikh community life.
Puri also condemned Gandhi for attacking the Indian legal system and election outcomes while abroad, accusing him of neglecting India’s recent developments and progress.
BJP National Secretary Manjinder Singh Sirsa echoed Puri’s sentiments, accusing Gandhi of using “hateful words” against Sikhs and dividing the country with his remarks. Sirsa asserted, “India is proud of its Sikhs. Your accusations that Sikhs cannot practice their religion freely are false and divisive.”
Gandhi’s comments during his US visit portrayed the BJP’s stance as an attack on religious freedom, emphasizing that the ideological battle is about ensuring religious practices are respected and protected in India.
The controversy underscores the ongoing tensions between the BJP and Congress, with both parties fiercely contesting each other’s claims and actions.
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