New Delhi, Feb 4 (NationPress) Senior leaders from the BJP have fiercely condemned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his alleged use of the term “traitor,” labeling it as highly offensive to the Sikh community and disrespectful to the armed forces. They also scrutinized the historical actions of the Congress party and its foreign relations.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri pointed out that the controversial remarks were captured on live television and underscored the serious implications of the term “traitor.” He clarified, “In English, ‘traitor’ signifies someone who betrays their country. Our community comprises only about 1.5% to 2% of the total population, yet nearly 20% serve in the military. Regardless, disparaging remarks about the armed forces are frequently made.”

Puri emphasized the core values of Sikhism, which promote humanity, equality, and service. He referenced the 1984 Golden Temple incident, asserting that the nation knows who holds responsibility for such historical events.

BJP National Spokesperson R.P. Singh noted that the Congress party had opposed the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which aimed to provide citizenship to persecuted Sikhs from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. He remarked, “Those who fought against the CAA are now labeling individuals as ‘traitors.’ They should clarify which agreements were made with the Communist Party of China and when this information will be disclosed. They also need to explain which account of the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation received funds from China.”

Delhi BJP MLA Arvinder Singh Lovely expressed that the Sikh community nationwide felt deeply insulted and outraged by Rahul Gandhi's comments. He lamented, “It’s unfortunate that someone whose grandfather sacrificed his life for the nation’s unity is labeled a traitor, while divisive figures are celebrated.”

Lovely further accused the Congress party of a history of targeting Sikh leaders and sentiments, noting that even former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, whom he described as a respectable individual, was portrayed as weak by his own party.

BJP leaders stressed that such remarks threaten national unity and offend communities that have made profound sacrifices for the country.

Earlier, a tense exchange unfolded between Rahul Gandhi and Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu within the Parliament complex. This confrontation took place at Makar Dwar, as Bittu passed by Congress MPs engaged in a protest. During this interaction, Gandhi was heard stating, “Here comes a traitor. Look at his face.” He also extended his hand towards Bittu and remarked, “Hello, brother, my traitor friend. Don’t worry, you will return.”

Gandhi’s comments referred to Bittu’s previous affiliation with Congress before he joined the BJP in March 2024. The Union Minister declined to shake hands and strongly countered the remarks.