Source The Hindu
“Elimination of Indian Constitution”
BERLIN/NEW DELHI – In a sharp escalation of his critique of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi alleged that the BJP is fundamentally proposing the “elimination of the Indian Constitution.” Speaking at the Hertie School in Berlin during an interaction titled “Politics is the Art of Listening,” Gandhi argued that the current political battle in India is a “clash of two visions” for the country’s future.
“Full-Scale Assault” on Institutions
Addressing a gathering of students and academics, Gandhi claimed that the BJP and RSS have initiated a “wholesale capture” of India’s institutional framework. He cited investigative agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as having been “weaponized” to target political opponents while allegedly ignoring cases within the ruling party.
“What the BJP is proposing, essentially, is the elimination of the Constitution. The elimination of the idea of equality between states, the elimination of the idea of equality between languages and religions,” Gandhi said.
Electoral Machinery and Democratic Unity
Gandhi also reiterated his concerns regarding the integrity of India’s electoral processes. Referring to recent state elections, he alleged that there were “duplicate voters” on lists and claimed that the Election Commission has failed to respond to direct queries from the Opposition.
Manufacturing vs. China: Beyond domestic politics, Gandhi noted that democracies like India and the U.S. have “handed over” production to China, which he believes fuels political turbulence and job crises.
Opposition Resistance: He vowed that the INDIA alliance would create a “system of resistance” to counter the institutional capture, stating that the battle is deeper than just winning elections.
BJP Hits Back: “Seeking Chaos and Anarchy”
The BJP was quick to respond to Gandhi’s remarks abroad. Party spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari accused the Congress leader of “uniting anti-India forces” and seeking to create “chaos and unrest” within Indian democracy.
BJP leaders questioned Gandhi’s frequent foreign tours, suggesting they indicate a lack of dedication to the Indian people. “Rahul Gandhi’s Congress wants anarchy,” Bhandari posted on X, further alleging that the LoP was following an “ideological patron” to destabilize the nation’s progress.
What’s Next?
Rahul Gandhi’s five-day visit to Germany concludes this week. The fallout from his “elimination of the Constitution” remarks is expected to dominate the remainder of the Winter Session of Parliament, with the BJP likely to seek a formal apology for his comments on foreign soil.
