Is Rahul Gandhi the 'New Age Mir Jafar' as BJP Claims?
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Synopsis
Amit Malviya's remark labeling Rahul Gandhi a 'new age Mir Jafar' ignites controversy. Senior Congress leaders condemn the BJP for engaging in cheap politics. The dispute centers around Gandhi's critique of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's silence on IAF losses, raising questions about the BJP's approach to dissent and political dialogue.
Key Takeaways
- Amit Malviya accused Rahul Gandhi of being a 'new age Mir Jafar'.
- Congress leaders condemned the BJP's tactics as cheap politics.
- The controversy revolves around questions about the government's accountability.
- Political discourse is becoming increasingly polarized in India.
- Historical references are often misused in contemporary political arguments.
New Delhi, May 20 (NationPress) A new political controversy has ignited after Amit Malviya, the head of the BJP IT Cell, labeled the Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, as a "new age Mir Jafar". This remark was made in response to Gandhi's criticism of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, prompting fierce backlash from prominent Congress leaders who accused the BJP of engaging in cheap politics.
The conflict started when Gandhi challenged Jaishankar on his silence regarding the number of Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft lost during Operation Sindoor. Malviya reacted by referring to Gandhi as a "new age Mir Jafar", a term historically linked to betrayal by a Bengal nobleman in the late 1700s, which paved the way for British colonial domination.
In an interview with IANS, Congress leader Tariq Anwar criticized the BJP’s persistent efforts to suppress dissenting opinions.
“This behavior is not new. They consistently resort to sarcasm and slander when the Opposition raises valid concerns,” Anwar stated.
“Since acquiring power in 2014 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP has operated under the notion that no one should challenge them. When someone does, they label them as ‘anti-national.’ Intellectuals who question the government face serious charges, including treason, and may even be imprisoned. Conversely, when BJP leaders make offensive remarks about the Army or national institutions, they face no repercussions.”
Another Congress MP, Akhilesh Prasad Singh, described the BJP's comments as profoundly disrespectful and historically uninformed.
“The Congress party was instrumental in India’s freedom struggle,” he remarked.
“Rahul Gandhi serves as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and his family has made significant sacrifices for the nation. From Motilal Nehru to Indira and Rajiv Gandhi, their legacies are well-documented. In contrast, what contributions did the BJP and RSS make during the independence movement? This language is not only incorrect but also tarnishes political discourse. It is cheap politics and utterly unacceptable,” he told IANS.
The political conflict escalated further when Malviya shared a provocative cartoon online, depicting Rahul Gandhi standing on Pakistan’s shoulders, questioning the Indian Air Force regarding its fighter jet losses. The caption implied that Pakistan was encouraging Gandhi and that he was echoing the enemies' narratives. This post incited outrage among Congress members, with many accusing the BJP of labeling political opponents as traitors for asking legitimate questions.
Point of View
It is vital to address the ongoing political tensions with objectivity. The exchange between the BJP and Congress underscores the challenges of political discourse in India. While it's essential to engage in robust debates, labeling opponents can tarnish the essence of democracy. It is crucial for all parties to foster respectful dialogue.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Amit Malviya say about Rahul Gandhi?
Amit Malviya referred to Rahul Gandhi as a 'new age Mir Jafar' in response to Gandhi's criticism of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
Why did Congress leaders criticize the BJP's remarks?
Congress leaders condemned the BJP for engaging in 'cheap politics' and for attempting to silence dissenting voices.
What was the context of the controversy?
The controversy arose after Gandhi questioned Jaishankar's silence on Indian Air Force aircraft losses during Operation Sindoor.
How did the political row escalate?
The situation intensified when Malviya shared a cartoon suggesting Gandhi was aligned with Pakistan's interests.
What historical reference did Malviya's comment imply?
The term 'Mir Jafar' historically refers to betrayal that facilitated British colonial rule in India.
