On Tuesday, Karnataka BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra vehemently criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's conduct during a recent protest march in Delhi, accusing him of exhibiting arrogance and a profound disregard for democratic institutions. Speaking from Bengaluru, Vijayendra's statement questioned the Congress party's commitment to constitutional propriety following the demonstration.
Vijayendra specifically lambasted Rahul Gandhi's actions during the protest, citing reports that he pulled Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar by his kurta and pushed him back into the crowd. Further allegations included party workers being elbowed and a female journalist reportedly physically manhandled amidst the demonstration. The BJP chief branded the entire episode a "brazen display of thuggery, arrogance, and slavish loyalty," asserting that the visuals underscored Gandhi's intolerance and sense of entitlement. He argued that Gandhi's behaviour showed little respect for the dignity of senior party leaders, the stature of an elected Chief Minister, or the safety of media personnel.
Drawing a stark historical parallel, Vijayendra contended that this authoritarian mindset mirrored the Emergency era five decades ago, when former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's government suppressed democratic freedoms and subjugated institutions. He further challenged the Congress leader's approach to constitutional bodies, alleging that the party was attempting to leverage its political frustrations to pressure the judiciary.
The BJP leader also condemned the Congress leaders' march to the Supreme Court, particularly after the Chief Justice of India reportedly declined a meeting. Vijayendra questioned the true objective of this exercise, noting that the related petition had purportedly been returned with 14 defects. "The Supreme Court is not a stage for political theatrics, and the Constitution cannot be held hostage to the electoral frustrations of one entitled political dynasty," he declared.
Vijayendra concluded by asserting that the Congress leadership treats constitutional institutions as mere extensions of the party. He emphasized that no political leader or family stands above the Constitution or the law, stressing that India's democracy far surpasses the ambitions of any single political family. He ultimately accused Rahul Gandhi, despite his position as an Opposition leader, of displaying an authoritarian attitude.
Image: mangalorean.com
📰 Source: Mangalorean News