Shiv Sena's Shaina NC slams Rahul Gandhi over Delhi protests
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Shiv Sena national spokesperson Shaina NC on Monday, 13 October 2026 launched a sharp attack on Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, saying he treats calling for protests like placing an order on a food delivery app — with little regard for the disruption caused to ordinary citizens. Her remarks came amid ongoing unrest in New Delhi that has drawn both political and judicial attention.
The 'Delivery App' Jibe
'For Rahul Gandhi, calling for protests is similar to ordering food on delivery apps. Call someone to protest; create inconvenience for people every day,' Shaina said while commenting on the ongoing unrest in the national capital. She accused Gandhi of lacking empathy for commuters and residents who rely on key stretches such as Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Mandi House, Secretariat, and Barakhamba Road.
Supreme Court Sub Judice Argument
Shaina invoked a remark reportedly attributed to Supreme Court Justice Surya Kant that the underlying matter is sub judice. 'When the matter is in court, one must wait and respect the decision of the Supreme Court. Then why are you creating nuisance on the streets and not letting the court do its work?' she asked. The Shiv Sena leader argued that street agitation while a case is pending undermines judicial process — a line of attack the ruling dispensation has used repeatedly against opposition-led demonstrations.
On Detentions and Delhi Police
Responding to the detention of Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) leaders during the protests, Shaina drew a distinction between legal concepts: 'There is a stark difference between detention and arrest. Everyone has the right to protest, but when it leads to unrest and riots, the police will also have to take action.' She praised Delhi Police for, in her characterisation, exercising restraint and protecting commuters rather than escalating tensions.
Opposition Narrative and Parliament vs Streets
Shaina challenged the opposition's broader messaging strategy. 'How long will you be able to mislead people through a false narrative? You are welcome to debate in the parliament, but don't create chaos on the streets,' she said. She also argued that political legacies tied to surnames such as Thackeray and Gandhi no longer hold automatic electoral pull, and that the opposition lacks a concrete vision, plan, or blueprint for governance.
Modi's Gen Z Appeal and Viksit Bharat
Responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent call for India's Gen Z to harness opportunities under Viksit Bharat, Shaina said the country's youth are not the future — they are the 'present'. She cited initiatives including Startup India, MSME support schemes, and Lakhpati Didi as evidence of the government empowering young and women entrepreneurs. She urged young people to channel their energy into education, security, and self-reliance — what she termed 'Atma-nirbharta' — rather than street agitation.
With protests continuing and the Supreme Court matter still pending, the political temperature in New Delhi is unlikely to cool in the coming days.