Is BJP's Praveen Khandelwal Right to Demand a Public Apology from Ram Gopal Yadav?

New Delhi, May 16 (NationPress) BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal vehemently criticized SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav on Friday for his contentious remarks regarding the caste identities of senior Defence officials.

Describing the statement as “extremely regrettable” and “indicative of mental bankruptcy,” Khandelwal called for a public apology, accusing Yadav of trying to “divide India’s armed forces based on caste and religious identities.”

“Is it now our aim to segment our military by caste? His lack of comprehension regarding our Defence forces is apparent. This is nothing less than mental bankruptcy,”

Khandelwal asserted in a forceful statement.

He continued, “Our armed forces have consistently exhibited unparalleled courage, whether in recent skirmishes or historical battles. To make derogatory comments about a decorated officer reflects a cheap and divisive mindset. Ram Gopal Yadav owes an apology to the nation.”

Khandelwal’s comments followed Yadav’s post on X, which alleged caste and religion-based discrimination in Uttar Pradesh and identified senior officials by name.

In his post, Yadav stated: “If these abusers had known that Vyomika Singh is Jatav and Air Marshal Awadhesh Bharti is Yadav, they would have also targeted these officers.”

Yadav further claimed, “In various Northern Indian states, notably Uttar Pradesh, false accusations are being lodged based on religion, caste, and class. Properties are being confiscated, and encounters are happening due to this bias. Even postings of officials are influenced by such factors.”

Khandelwal also criticized the Congress party, accusing it and its allies of politicizing national security.

“Some Congress leaders habitually demand proof for every military action. Should our armed forces now validate their bravery?” he questioned.

“Did Congress ever ask for proof when the Indian Army achieved victories under the leadership of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi? No. This is mere politics, and it is disgraceful to leverage it over national defense issues.”

“The Opposition seems to forget that this is not merely a political debate; it pertains to the security and dignity of the nation,”

he added. “Such serious matters should not be exploited for political gains.”

The controversy has ignited strong reactions across political spheres, with BJP leaders denouncing the invocation of caste in discussions about national defense.

Khandelwal reaffirmed, “Dragging the armed forces into caste-based discussions is a profound insult to their integrity, professionalism, and sacrifices. Ram Gopal Yadav must apologize without delay.”