After becoming the leader of opposition, Rahul Gandhi is being seen following a completely different approach in Lok Sabha. He seemed to be assertive, intense and more dynamic than ever before. In his speech that lasted more than one and a half hour, he vented out quite a number of things. His speech of more than one and a half hours felt like the culmination of a decade-long buildup, as if he had unleashed a long-contained storm today.
Nevertheless, Rahul spurted out certain things that could were not as significant and could have been avoided; it appeared that his words are exploding out of anger. It seemed that Rahul took out all his anger in the House today for the slogan of Congress-free India and the way he and his party were targeted in the last five years. There was an uproar in the House over his attacks and leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had to stand up from their seats to express their objection.
Speaker Om Birla found Rahul’s speech unsettling, particularly the accusations of muting microphones and showing deference to Prime Minister Modi. Rahul’s comments on violence against Agniveer and Hinduism could potentially land him in hot water, as the Speaker has committed to verifying these claims at the government’s request. While some perceived Rahul’s speech as anti-Hindu, he clarified that his criticism was not aimed at the entire Hindu community. Priyanka Gandhi also defended him, asserting that Rahul did not label Hindus as inherently violent. During today’s session on the President’s address, Rahul launched direct attacks on the government, focusing on allegations of violence and animosity towards BJP. His rhetoric resembled an election campaign, reminiscent of his previous strategies where he targeted BJP using figures like Shivaji’s image. Rahul accused BJP of spreading hatred despite Hinduism’s teachings opposing such actions. He directly challenged Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, implying they fear Prime Minister Modi’s authority.
Rahul’s speech set the tone for a contentious 18th Lok Sabha session, with indications that smooth functioning will be challenged. Congress concentrated more on criticizing BJP and raising personal attacks rather than discussing the President’s address, suggesting heightened confrontation ahead. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to counter these attacks vigorously, potentially escalating tensions in the House. With upcoming state elections in Haryana, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra, the results will shape the opposition’s strategy in Parliament and beyond.