Congress on Friday called for the filing of an FIR over an alleged “threat” issued by a BJP leader to Rahul Gandhi in response to his remarks about the Sikh community during his US visit. The Congress also urged a reassessment of Rahul Gandhi’s security, highlighting his position as the Leader of the Opposition, a role with Cabinet-level status.
Earlier, members of the Delhi BJP’s Sikh cell had staged a protest against Gandhi, demanding an apology for his statements. A video circulated by Congress leaders captured BJP leader Manjinder Singh Marwah warning, “Rahul Gandhi, refrain from such things, or you’ll meet the same fate as your grandmother.”
At a press conference at the AICC headquarters, Partap Singh Bajwa, Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, said, “When a BJP leader threatens the Leader of the Opposition, the government should have immediately registered an FIR. If they don’t, we will take the necessary steps.” He emphasized, “Rahul Gandhi is a Cabinet-rank leader. If the BJP truly believes in democracy and does not support Marwah’s comments, they should file an FIR and reassess his security.”
Former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi defended Gandhi, stating that his remarks in the US highlighted the mistreatment of SCs, STs, OBCs, and minorities, including Sikhs. “Rahul Gandhi has spoken in favor of Sikhs’ rights, and the BJP is distorting his message. They are threatening him with death, which is dangerous for India’s democracy,” Channi said.
During a speech to Indian Americans, Gandhi criticized the RSS for considering certain religions, languages, and communities inferior. He stated, “The fight in India is about whether a Sikh can wear his turban or a kada and visit a gurdwara. This fight is not about politics but for religious freedom for all.”
In response, BJP protesters demanded an apology from Gandhi for “insulting” Sikhs and held the Congress accountable for the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.