Why is Congress Awarding the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize to Michelle Bachelet?
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Synopsis
The BJP's Amit Malviya criticizes Congress for awarding the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize to Michelle Bachelet, highlighting alleged biases against India. This controversy underscores the ongoing political tensions between the two major parties in India, as the BJP questions Congress's alignment with foreign critics.
Key Takeaways
- BJP's critique of Congress highlights ideological conflicts.
- The award to Bachelet raises concerns over national sentiment.
- Historical context of the Indira Gandhi Prize is significant.
- Political tensions are resurfacing in India.
- Congress's alignment with international critics is under scrutiny.
New Delhi, Nov 19 (NationPress) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Amit Malviya, who heads the party's National Information and Technology Department, has launched a fierce critique against the Congress party for presenting the esteemed Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development to Michelle Bachelet, the former President of Chile and ex-UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
In a pointed statement, Malviya characterized the Congress decision as “revealing as it is predictable,” accusing Bachelet of advocating a “distinctly anti-India, pro-Islamist narrative” during her term as UN Human Rights Commissioner from 2018 to 2022.
He asserted that her actions resonate well with the “global Left-Liberal ecosystem” that has found a home within the Congress party.
Malviya contended that Bachelet, a lifelong member of Chile's left-leaning Socialist Party, consistently targeted India under the guise of safeguarding “minority rights” and “freedom of speech.”
He alleged that these ideals were manipulated to endorse divisive rhetoric, interfere in India's domestic issues, and challenge democratic decisions—especially by magnifying what he termed “discredited myths” about Kashmir and accusations of “marginalising Muslims.”
“The real issue isn’t her bias. It’s Congress’s eagerness to reward it,” Malviya stated, implying that the opposition party was desperate for approval from international figures who share its alleged animosity towards India's interests.
He depicted the award as a reflection of ideological alignment between Rahul Gandhi’s circle and foreign critics rejected by Indian voters.
The BJP leader claimed that for a party “rejected and cast aside” by the electorate, seeking “ideological companions abroad” is natural, adding sarcastically: “Good luck to them—because the country has clearly moved on.”
The Indira Gandhi Prize, established by the Congress-affiliated Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust, has previously recognized global figures such as Angela Merkel and David Attenborough.
This year's choice of Bachelet has rekindled political disputes, with the BJP framing it as a testament to Congress's disconnection from the sentiments of the nation.
As of now, Congress has not officially addressed Malviya's criticisms.
Point of View
It is imperative to view the current political discourse with a balanced perspective. The awarding of the Indira Gandhi Prize to Michelle Bachelet has stirred significant controversy, emphasizing the ongoing ideological divide in Indian politics. While the BJP raises valid concerns, it is essential to consider the broader context of human rights advocacy and its implications for India's international standing.
NationPress
19/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Michelle Bachelet?
Michelle Bachelet is a former President of Chile and served as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
What is the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace?
The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development is awarded by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust to individuals or organizations for contributions to peace and development.
Why is the BJP criticizing Congress over this award?
The BJP criticizes Congress for allegedly rewarding a figure who has been perceived as anti-India and who aligns with a left-liberal ideology.
What are the implications of this award?
The implications include heightened political tensions and discussions about Congress's connection with international figures critical of India's policies.
Has Congress responded to the criticism?
As of now, Congress has not officially responded to the criticisms made by Amit Malviya.
