Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has sharply responded to the BJP’s criticism regarding the bag she was seen carrying, which featured the word “Palestine.” The controversy began during a Parliament session when Vadra was photographed with the bag, which also displayed emblems linked to Palestinian solidarity, including the iconic watermelon symbol. The BJP swiftly condemned her choice, accusing her of supporting Palestine at the expense of India’s interests.

Vadra Denounces BJP’s “Useless” Remarks

Reacting to the BJP’s allegations of appeasement, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra dismissed the controversy as “useless things” that diverted attention from more pressing issues. Instead of focusing on her personal belongings, Vadra called on the government to address the growing atrocities against minorities and Hindus in Bangladesh. She urged the Indian government to engage in talks with Bangladesh over the issue, emphasizing that such concerns should take precedence over political distractions.

BJP’s Allegations of “Appeasement”

BJP leaders, including MP Manoj Tiwari, criticized Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s choice, accusing the Congress of indulging in appeasement politics. Tiwari claimed that Congress uses such symbolic gestures to win Muslim votes, pointing to the longstanding “Garibi Hatao” slogan that he argued has been repeatedly used by Congress leaders to win elections by dividing communities. Union Minister of State, SP Singh Baghel, also joined the criticism, stating that Vadra’s bag was not a coincidence, but a deliberate attempt to send a political message aimed at polarizing voters.

Priyanka Gandhi’s Support for Palestinian Struggle

This is not the first time Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has been linked to Palestinian causes. Earlier in December 2023, she met Palestinian Ambassador to India, Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer, at her residence. During the meeting, Vadra expressed her support for the Palestinian people’s struggle for independence and freedom, affirming her long-standing commitment to the Palestinian cause. Jazer, in turn, praised her stance and recalled her childhood meeting with Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, who visited India during the tenure of her late grandmother, Indira Gandhi.

India’s Stance on Palestine

India’s position on the Israel-Palestine conflict remains firm and balanced, calling for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy. India has condemned the Hamas-led attacks on Israel in October 2023, while continuing to support the idea of a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. India’s Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its support for a sovereign and independent Palestine alongside Israel, emphasising that peaceful negotiation is the only path to resolving the ongoing crisis.

While Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s bag has become a lightning rod for political debate, the BJP’s criticism may also be seen as an effort to distract from more pressing issues. As the political discourse shifts toward symbols and personal choices, the Congress MP continues to call attention to the need for greater diplomatic engagement on international issues, including those concerning Bangladesh and the Israel-Palestine conflict. Whether this controversy will have lasting political repercussions remains to be seen.

(With agency inputs)