JHARKHAND: In an intensifying critique, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recently targeted the BJP and RSS for allegedly fostering divisive politics across India. Speaking at a rally in Lohardaga, Jharkhand, Gandhi accused the BJP of “burning Manipur” and promoting conflict based on religious and community lines, claiming the party’s quest for power has come at the cost of national unity and peace.
BJP-RSS’s Divisive Politics: A National Threat?
Rahul Gandhi stated that the BJP has systematically “incited Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and Sikhs” against one another and manipulated social fractures for electoral gains. He cited recent state elections, including those in Haryana, where he claimed BJP-backed actions divided Jats and non-Jats, fueling tensions within communities. According to Gandhi, the BJP’s focus on political supremacy often comes with a disregard for the broader social and communal harmony that sustains India’s unity.
Manipur: A Symbol of BJP’s Alleged Neglect
Manipur has emerged as a focal point in Gandhi’s accusations, symbolizing what he describes as the BJP’s indifference to regional crises. The northeastern state, which has faced a surge in violence and civil unrest, was visited by Gandhi earlier this year as part of his outreach, where he interacted with both the Kuki and Meitei communities. His visit highlighted the worsening humanitarian crisis in Manipur, where inter-community violence has left thousands displaced. Gandhi emphasized the need for “peace over politics,” urging the government to prioritize relief and recovery in the state.
The Manipur violence, according to Gandhi, reflects a broader issue: the BJP’s alleged neglect of regional conflicts. Despite the unrest, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not made a public appearance in Manipur, sparking criticism from opposition parties who argue that the BJP’s silence is a strategy to sidestep responsibility. Smriti Irani, a senior BJP leader, fired back in the Rajya Sabha, accusing Gandhi of fueling division rather than offering constructive solutions.
Also Read:Rahul Gandhi Accuses BJP of Undermining Tribal Rights in Jharkhand
Calls for Reconciliation and Inclusivity
Through his speeches, Gandhi has advocated for India to resist divisive narratives and promote unity, a theme he previously championed in his Bharat Jodo Yatra. The Congress leader has increasingly framed his critique of the BJP within a call for inclusivity, arguing that divisive politics weaken India’s social fabric. He emphasized, “violence is never the answer,” urging all Indians, especially those in conflict-ridden states, to seek peace and understanding.
The growing friction between the Congress and BJP underscores the polarization shaping India’s political landscape. With accusations and counter-accusations intensifying ahead of the 2024 general elections, Gandhi’s message of unity may attract supporters frustrated with divisive politics, though the BJP dismisses his rhetoric as a political maneuver.
By focusing on Manipur and other regions impacted by unrest, Rahul Gandhi aims to underscore the potential risks of religious and community-based division, contending that India’s path forward must be one of inclusivity and national solidarity.
Input from sources, Web Team at C6N
