On Tuesday, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Tarun Chugh denounced Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Shakti’ comment, asserting that Maa Shakti, or the divine feminine power, embodies the strength of the nation.
“Maa Shakti is the strength of the country… Since time immemorial, we have revered her. Unfortunately, he (Rahul Gandhi) is consistently disrespecting Maa Shakti, Sanatan Dharma, religion, and central institutions,” stated BJP leader Chugh in an interview with ANI.
The controversy arose after Congress MP Rahul Gandhi raised concerns regarding the functioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), highlighting the Opposition’s struggle against the authority of the state.
Following Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Shakti’ remark, BJP leaders criticized his statement, while the Congress party stood behind the Wayanad MP, offering support.
In his remarks made on Sunday in Maharashtra, Rahul Gandhi stated, “There is a term ‘Shakti’ (might) in Hinduism. We are combating against a Shakti (might of the state). The question is, what is that Shakti and what does it mean for us? The essence and integrity of EVMs have been surrendered to the King (Modi). This is a reality. Not only EVMs but every autonomous institution in the country, whether it’s the ED, CBI, or Income Tax department, has relinquished their independence to the Centre.”
Responding to the controversy, Rahul Gandhi clarified his statement, suggesting that he was referring to the power represented by the Prime Minister.
“Modi ji does not appreciate my words; he always attempts to distort their meaning because he knows I have spoken a profound truth. The power that I mentioned, the power we are opposing, its facade is none other than Modi ji,” posted the Congress leader on X.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi countered Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Shakti’ remark, expressing his willingness to sacrifice his life for ‘Shakti’.
“The INDI alliance stated in their manifesto that their fight is against ‘Shakti’. For me, every mother, daughter, and sister embodies ‘Shakti’. I revere them as ‘Shakti’. I am a devotee of Bharat Mata… Their manifesto aims to eradicate ‘Shakti’, and I accept the challenge… ‘Main jaan ki baazi laga dunga’ (I am ready to stake my life),” asserted PM Modi.
The Lok Sabha elections for 543 seats will take place from April 19 to June 1, with the vote counting scheduled for June 4.