Jaishankar Fires Back at Rahul Gandhi: “This is Now LoP’s Brand of Politics”

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar took aim at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday, criticizing his recent statement about “not all Hindus” being the same. The remark, made during a discussion on the ongoing Adani controversy, has sparked heated debate and drew swift condemnation from the BJP.

Jaishankar, known for his sharp wit and direct approach, responded with a pointed tweet, saying, “This is now LoP’s brand of politics – divide and rule by creating ‘Hindu’ and ‘not Hindu’ categories. Sadly, it’s a continuation of his family’s old playbook of appeasement.”

The Context:

Gandhi’s controversial statement came during an interview with a news channel. He was asked about the Adani Group controversy and its potential impact on the government’s image. In his response, he asserted that “not all Hindus” are the same, implying that those who are supportive of the government are somehow “less Hindu” than those who are critical.

The Reaction:

The BJP wasted no time in condemning Gandhi’s remarks, labeling them as divisive and a blatant attempt to exploit religious sentiments for political gain. Party leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accused the Congress leader of deliberately trying to sow discord and undermine the unity of the Hindu community.

A Look at the Numbers:

The Adani controversy has been a hot topic in the Indian political landscape for several weeks, with opposition parties raising serious concerns about the alleged financial irregularities and insider trading within the group. While there is no concrete evidence linking the government to any wrongdoing, the allegations have cast a shadow over the Modi administration.

The LoP’s Role:

As the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Gandhi’s role is crucial in holding the government accountable and ensuring transparency. However, his recent statements have been seen by many as a departure from this core duty, focusing instead on divisive rhetoric and personal attacks.

The Bigger Picture:

The spat between Jaishankar and Gandhi is just the latest episode in a long-running saga of political rivalry between the BJP and the Congress. With the upcoming Lok Sabha elections looming, the rhetoric is expected to intensify, and the Adani controversy is likely to remain a key talking point.

The Takeaway:

Jaishankar’s sharp rebuke highlights the growing tension between the two major political parties. While the debate over the Adani controversy continues, it is crucial to ensure that political discourse remains civil and constructive, focusing on the issues rather than resorting to divisive rhetoric.